Good afternoon everyone,
It is a pleasure to be back here at #7 Middle Town as we provide an update on a project that reflects our continued focus on delivering practical housing solutions for Bermudians.
When we stood here several months ago, this site represented potential. Today, it represents progress and delivery.
Browne House, together with Evans Cottage next door, forms an important part of the Bermuda Housing Corporation’s Residential Building Programme.
The focus of this phase has been the full refurbishment of four two-bedroom, one-bathroom units, and I am pleased to report that this work is now substantially complete.
These are not minor upgrades. These are fully modernised homes that are ready to support individuals and families in need of safe, functional, and affordable housing.
This project began with architectural planning and design in January 2025, followed by the permitting process and initial demolition works.
Construction progressed in earnest from September 2025, and over the past several months, we are proud to have partnered with Vision Construction and Moongate Consulting who completely transformed these old apartments into the new modern ones we see today.
Each apartment, approximately 588 square feet in size, has been rebuilt to meet modern standards.
That work has included new concrete floor slabs replacing very old timber systems, new windows throughout, fully upgraded electrical systems, complete replumbing, and the installation of high-quality kitchen cabinetry and finishes.
In short, these units have been brought up to a standard that reflects the quality of housing Bermudians deserve.
As with many projects involving older buildings, the process was not without its challenges.
During construction, we encountered significant water infiltration within the original Bermuda stone walls, as well as vegetation and root systems embedded within the structure itself.
Addressing these issues required additional remediation to ensure the long-term integrity and durability of the building.
That work was necessary, and it was the responsible thing to do.
The original approved budget for this project was approximately $391,000.
As a result of these unforeseen conditions, there was an additional cost of just over $52,000.
While no project welcomes overruns, this investment ensures that these homes are not only completed, but completed properly, with longevity and resilience in mind.
What matters most is the outcome.
Four fully renovated units are now ready to be returned to Bermuda Housing Corporation’s housing stock, directly contributing to increasing the availability of quality, affordable homes.
This project is one part of a broader effort.
Across the island, the Residential Building Programme continues to deliver new and refurbished units, with more than 60 homes being added through a combination of developments and renovations.
At the same time, the modular housing pilot is progressing, providing faster, more flexible housing solutions while we continue to advance longer-term developments.
We are also addressing housing from multiple angles, through refurbishment programmes, new construction, and the development of a long-term Affordable Housing Strategy.
Because there is no single solution to Bermuda’s housing challenges, it requires sustained, coordinated action.
But projects like this matter.
They may be modest in scale, but they deliver real results for our people.
They restore existing housing stock, improve living conditions, and make better use of the assets we already have.
Before concluding my remarks, I would like to thank the Chairman, T. Christopher Famous, JP, MP, and the BHC Board of Directors, for setting, very carefully, the organisation’s strategic direction. I also thank the CEO and General Manager, Paul Martin and his team at the BHC.
I must also single out BHC’s Assistant Project Manager, Mr. E. Blake Lambert, and thank him for his exceptional work overseeing this project! Blake has done exceptional work overseeing this project. We are privileged to have his knowledge and expertise of the industry to bring about the quality of work we witnessed here today.
Your work is helping to deliver meaningful changes in our communities.
Ultimately, housing is about more than buildings.
It is about stability, dignity, and opportunity.
And today’s update is a clear example of our commitment to delivering all three.
Thank you.