In one of his first public addresses as the newly appointed Housing Minister, Chris Gibbs outlined a significant reset in housing policy, emphasizing reforms for the troubled HOPE programme and a new maintenance-focused mandate for the National Housing Corporation (NHC). Speaking at the Barbados Annual Construction and Design Conference (BACDC) held at Sandals Royal Barbados, Gibbs addressed critical issues plaguing the housing sector, including the inefficiencies of the HOPE initiative and the NHC’s dual role in construction and maintenance. Gibbs, who replaced Dwight Sutherland following his resignation for personal reasons, pledged to transform HOPE into a project management-focused institution, leveraging public-private partnerships to deliver affordable housing solutions. He acknowledged the programme’s challenges, including delays and financing issues, but expressed optimism about its future. Gibbs also announced a strategic shift for the NHC, prioritizing maintenance over new construction to address long-standing inefficiencies. He proposed a two-tiered building strategy: an industrial model for planning and design, supported by innovative techniques, and an artisanal model for routine maintenance, engaging small contractors and artisans. This approach aims to streamline operations and ensure sustainable housing solutions for Barbados.