A Willikies resident has publicly challenged the transparency of land distribution procedures as housing developments expand throughout the constituency. During a recent town hall assembly, Carolyn Thomas raised concerns about subdivided lands in the Wombs area (alternatively known as the Rooms district), questioning the fairness of allocation criteria for St. Philip’s North residents.
Thomas specifically advocated for preferential treatment of local youth in land assignments around the Williams sector, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing constituency inhabitants. She expressed optimism that authorities would address these concerns promptly.
In response, Works Minister Maria Browne detailed the structured allocation mechanism administered by the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHAPA). Browne clarified that prospective landowners must submit formal applications, typically facilitated through constituency representatives or caretakers, which are subsequently reviewed by an independent allocation committee.
The ministerial explanation highlighted that applications enter a centralized pool for comprehensive evaluation, with decisions communicated simultaneously to both applicants and their constituency representatives. Browne emphasized that priority consideration is expressly granted to residents within the respective constituencies to preserve community cohesion and familial connections.
Additionally, the minister revealed available land resources in the Glanvilles vicinity, including plots designated under the land empowerment initiative. Browne noted significant application volumes originating from St. Philip’s North residents, encouraging interested parties to consult their area caretakers for comprehensive application guidance.