Belize’s transportation authorities and prefabricated housing industry have achieved a significant breakthrough in their ongoing regulatory dispute. Following intensive negotiations, the Ministry of Transport and the Prefabricated House Builders and Movers association have developed a comprehensive framework addressing the previously contentious ban on relocating prefabricated homes.
The resolution emerged from what industry representatives described as ‘amicable and constructive discussions’ with Transport CEO Chester Williams. The new agreement focuses on implementing enhanced safety protocols while maintaining the critical supply of affordable housing throughout the country.
Key components of the proposed regulations include stricter safety standards, mandatory private escort vehicles for mobile homes, streamlined permitting processes, and authorization for nighttime transportation. Additionally, the agreement introduces innovative safety features such as loud hailer systems to alert approaching drivers and improved lighting configurations with flashing lights connecting transport vehicles to the structures being moved.
Williams emphasized that while the ministry supports the proposed measures, final approval must come from the Cabinet. The ministry will prepare an information paper for Cabinet consideration in the coming weeks. Simultaneously, stakeholders will collaborate on a public education infomercial to increase awareness about safe practices when encountering mobile home transport on highways.
The building sector has expressed readiness to immediately implement the new protocols once officially approved, marking a potential end to the uncertainty that has plagued the affordable housing market.