The Ministry of Housing says it is developing 27 recreational facilities across several regions, including 12 in Region Four, as part of its housing programme.

Housing Minister Collin Croal provided the update during an October 2 visit to the recreational ground under development at Le Reconnaissance, East Coast Demerara, according to a ministry release.

The first phase of work at that facility includes construction of a perimeter fence, concrete drainage around the ground and land levelling. A second phase, to be undertaken in collaboration with the Office of the First Lady, will include an exercise walkway, slides and other recreational amenities for children.

“We are enhancing the communities in which persons live. Recreational facilities provide an avenue for persons to exercise and a space for families to bring their children for leisure,” Croal was quoted as saying.

He said similar works were being undertaken in other communities where the ministry has ongoing housing programmes, with the aim of providing residents with accessible spaces for exercise and family activities.

The release did not provide the overall cost of the 27 facilities, a full list of their locations or completion dates.

Approximately 175 low-income houses form part of the housing programme at Le Reconnaissance. Kiskadee Watch reported on October 3 that a batch of 100 two-bedroom homes, valued at $5.6 million each, was approximately 15 per cent complete and scheduled for completion by the end of January 2027. All 100 had been allocated, and eight contractors were undertaking the work. Those units complement an earlier block of 75 homes.

Recreational amenities were among the facilities promised for the housing area when lots were allocated five years ago. Stabroek News reported in August 2021 that approximately 1,000 low- and moderate-income applicants received lots in the La Reconnaisance community through a housing drive.

At that time, Croal said the development would include educational, social, health, safety and recreational facilities, alongside roads, bridges, electricity and water infrastructure. 

The ministry said the current recreational programme complements community infrastructure work being undertaken through the Ministries of Local Government and Regional Development and Public Works.