The government will build 120 new homes and release 300 land parcels to citizens in 2026, Prime Minister Gaston Browne announced Thursday, outlining one of the most aggressive housing and land-empowerment drives in recent years.
Browne detailed the plans during the presentation of the 2026 national budget, saying the initiative is designed to expand homeownership, increase access to affordable housing and ensure more Antiguans and Barbudans gain a direct stake in national development.
“The goal is to empower our people through land and home ownership,” Browne told Parliament, noting that hundreds of families are expected to benefit from the combined rollout of new homes and serviced lots. He said the government will prioritize young professionals, public servants and lower- to middle-income earners who have struggled with rising construction costs.
The homes will be constructed through the government’s existing housing programmes and in partnership with private contractors, using modern hurricane-resilient designs. Browne said the land parcels — many located in growing residential zones — will be sold below market rates to give citizens a fair opportunity to build a home or invest in small-scale development.
The Prime Minister said the housing plan is supported by the country’s improved fiscal position, including a primary surplus of $254.9 million and the strongest debt-to-GDP ratio Antigua and Barbuda has recorded in decades. He argued that disciplined financial management has allowed the government to scale up capital spending while expanding social programmes.
Housing officials say demand for affordable homes remains high, with applications far exceeding available units in prior years. The 2026 expansion also aligns with broader development goals, including strengthening community infrastructure, improving road access, and supporting the construction sector, which has grown from $273 million in 2013 to $900 million in 2024.
Browne said the government will continue releasing additional lands over the next several years to ensure Antiguans and Barbudans can “own a meaningful piece of the country they are building.”
Further details on the locations and application process will be announced when the budget debate resumes next week.
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