The shortage of construction materials still poses a major challenge for the Central Planning and Housing Authority (CH&PA). So much so, it has affected the timely completion of road upgrade contracts in several housing schemes.
According to the agency’s Project Manager, Omar Narine, the CH&PA would have received from the National Budget, in excess of$1.4B, which was used to finance the upgrade of roads in 19 housing schemes.
Narine reported earlier this week, that 13 of those areas were completed, with the remaining six projects at 90 % completion.
Narine noted that the slowdown in completing the works came as a result of challenges faced in the procurement process. He reported that there were shortages in construction materials.
Nevertheless, the agency is hopeful that it can complete these works this month.
Funding from the budget is also being used to upgrade recreational facilities within CH&PA housing schemes.
Narine informed that two of three facilities identified for upgrades were completed. One was completed in Amelia’s Ward, Linden, and the other in Prospect on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD). Works are ongoing at the one in Perseverance, EBD.
The Director noted that the agency was able to accrue savings from several projects, and tenders have been issued for two recreational facility projects for Eccles.
Additionally, the CH&PA commenced the installation of electrical components in 9 of the housing schemes that were allocated in 2018. These works are expected to be completed by the end of this month.
