Modern techniques used for 100 homes under construction at Great Diamond

A first of its kind project to construct 100 homes at Great Diamond on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD) is being realised, using modern techniques that are now introduced to Guyana.
Housing Minister Collin Croal visited the construction on Monday, where some 50 low-income and 50 moderate-income homes are being constructed.
South Atlantic is constructing the moderate-income units utilising reinforced concrete foundations and blocks made only of recycled plastic. These homes measure 600 square feet and cost $5.9 million each.
The low-income units, measuring 600 square feet, are being constructed by Visionary Builders and Services Incorporated, using materials such as metal sheets and concrete. Each unit costs approximately $5.5 million.
These projects were conceptualised at Building Expo 2022. Croal noted his satisfaction with the progress made so far by contractors.

The structure is modern and typically built in areas to withstand harsh weather conditions. This project commenced in October 2022 and by March, all of these structures will be completed and ready for buyers.
“This type of housing is different. They’re using metal sheets and then plastering it with concrete. We expect the first 26 houses to be completed by the ending of this month. These housing will be going at $5.5 million,” Minister Croal shared on the low-income structures.
He explained that once completed, persons who have already prequalified for a housing unit will be able to benefit. If the response is significant, this will be replicated in a second phase.
“Immediately, we’ll start putting this now through the beneficiaries that we have. We have a pool of persons who have already prequalified for low-income funded houses. We will be making this available immediately. We will see the response from the market and then know if we can have a Phase Two,” the Minister outlined.
He underscored that these homes are being built at a ‘prime’ location where potential homeowners would have easy access to proper highways and amenities.
“This is what happens as part of development. Here is becoming a front,” he added.
In 2023, a total of $54.5 billion has been allocated by the Government in the national budget for housing developments in new and existing areas. This includes money to construct roads, drains and bridges, and the installation of utilities. (G12)