The eight homes being constructed on behalf of the Sister Islands Affordable Housing Development Corporate (SIAHDC) are nearing completion, said Chairman Mrs. Christine Maltman.

Eight contracts were awarded in December 2011 to construct four homes on West End site and four homes on the Watering Place site.

“We’re 75 per cent there,” Mrs. Maltman said. “We are nearing l completion and hope to wrap everything up by the end of April. I am amazed at the speed and pleased with the high standard of work that is being carried out by the contractors.”

One 2-bedroom and three 3-bedroom homes are being constructed at the Watering Place site and (four) 3-bedroom homes at West End. The plans are similar to the eight existing homes at the West End site, which are 855 sq. ft. for a 2-bedroom home and 1,073 sq. ft. for a 3-bedroom unit. While the units are called affordable homes, all are well constructed and go beyond the usual standards required. The inner walls are full concrete and the homes are complete with a full kitchen and all the standard appliances such as washer, dryer, refrigerators. While there is no central air conditioning, the homes are constructed so that central air can be added in the future.

“Beyond the service being provided to Cayman Brac working families, these homes also represent a meaningful investment opportunity in our communities because the housing scheme has created jobs within the island by awarding eight contractors, who in turn, have hired members of the local workforce,” said Mrs. Maltman.

She encouraged persons in need of housing to apply to the SIAHDC. Home buyer eligibility are assessed on household income, residency, employment and personal references.

Deputy Premier and Minister of District Administration, Works, Lands and Agricultural Hon. Juliana O’Connor-Connolly said: “Providing safe, affordable and quality housing to citizens is a common goal for every government and I believe we have achieved that goal. As the Cayman Islands works toward a bright future, we’re going to get there by creating an environment that fosters investment in the vitality of all of our communities and we recognise that affordable housing as a big part of that equation.”

“We are proud of the partnership SIAHDC has developed with each contractor and the bank, by supporting improved housing for the residents of Cayman Brac,” Ms O’Connor-Connolly added. She also lauded the contractors for their speed and efficiency in working on the homes.

“The contractors understand that people want to improve their lives and they are working equally hard to ensure that the homeowners can move in as quickly as possible. This is what is known as nation-building and I am pleased to be associated with it,” the Deputy Premier stated.