In a significant announcement ahead of the 2026 national budget, Minister of Housing and Caroni Central MP David Lee revealed plans for a substantial expansion in public housing construction across the country. Speaking to the media outside the Red House in Port of Spain on October 13, Lee emphasized that the upcoming budget will kickstart the government’s long-awaited housing initiatives, addressing what he termed a decade of stagnation in the sector.
Lee, who has been collaborating closely with the ministries of finance and planning, highlighted that the government is poised to deliver on its campaign promises under the leadership of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar. “A lot of dynamic things will be happening in housing this year,” he stated, expressing confidence in the administration’s ability to meet public demand.
The minister disclosed that efforts have been underway for the past four to five months to secure loan facilities to fund the ambitious housing projects. “We are there, and that will be known shortly,” he assured. Additionally, Lee noted that the new developments will prioritize single-family units, reflecting public preferences. “Although we’re trying to create more of a village-type community, we’ve noticed that many people prefer single-family units over apartment-style living,” he explained. To accommodate this demand, the government is considering reducing land sizes from 5,000 to 3,500 square feet, enabling the construction of more units.
This announcement marks a pivotal moment in the government’s housing strategy, signaling a renewed commitment to addressing the nation’s housing needs over the next four years.