Cabinet Approves Termination of Sutherlands Lease to Advance Low-Income Housing Development

A recommendation from Minister for Housing and Works Maria Browne has been approved for the termination of a lease held by Maxwell Randolph Henry for lands at Sutherlands, Block 64 1892C, Parcel 282.

The property, which spans approximately 13.647 acres, is partially occupied by the Clarevue Mental Hospital as well as several informal housing settlements.

Cabinet said the decision forms part of the Government’s broader housing and national development strategy, which has identified the area as suitable for transformation into a structured low-income housing community, while also addressing the regularization of existing settlements.

According to Cabinet, the Ministry of Housing and Works has been directed to move forward with the planning and execution of a comprehensive housing development project for the site.

The proposed development is expected to include the construction of affordable housing units for low-income families, the regularization of informal settlements to provide residents with security of tenure, and the integration of community facilities along with supporting infrastructure aimed at fostering sustainable community development.

Cabinet further indicated that coordination between the Ministry of Housing and Works and the Ministry of Health has been mandated to address relocation and accommodation arrangements for the Clarevue Mental Hospital. This, it said, is to ensure continuity of care and services during the redevelopment process.

According to Cabinet, the termination of the lease was carried out under the Government’s legal authority to manage Crown lands in the public interest, particularly where such actions align with national housing policy and wider social development goals.

The initiative is part of ongoing efforts by the Government to expand access to affordable housing, improve living conditions, and promote sustainable community development across Antigua and Barbuda.