An affordable housing project in Paget is progressing in its second phase with the construction of 12 rental units well under way, the Government said this week.

Lieutenant-Colonel David Burch, the Minister of Public Works, said contractors for the Harmony Hall project, which was launched in September last year by the Bermuda Housing Corporation under his ministry, have consistently met expectations.

The 12 new units are a combination of studio and one-bedroom apartments. Four of the units are on the ground floor and include wheelchair-accessible features.

They are expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2025, providing housing for people on the BHC waiting list, which has 200 applicants.

Eight refurbished units became available this year in the first phase of the development as part of a plan to deliver 52 units at the site.

Colonel Burch said: “By increasing the inventory of affordable rental units, we are providing homes for Bermudians and easing competition in the private rental market.

“This, in turn, helps to stabilise rental prices and benefits the entire community.

"Growing our housing inventory is essential to addressing Bermuda's housing challenges and ensuring our economy thrives by supporting population growth.

“Investments in housing may seem costly but they are indispensable to the island's long-term stability and prosperity."

The BHC also offers a private sector rental programme, which is designed to expand housing availability while easing the burden on private homeowners.

It enables homeowners to rent their properties to the BHC under the corporation’s management.

The BHC guarantees rent on time, tenant oversight, maintenance and the return of properties to their original condition.

Colonel Burch encouraged homeowners, particularly seniors, to consider the option.

He added: “This programme removes the hassle of tenant management and rent collection while providing peace of mind.”