Minister for Equity and Social Justice and parliamentary representative (MP) for Castries South East , Joachim Henry, announced that individuals occupying Crown Lands in Odsan for over 30 years will be granted the opportunity to acquire these lands, provided they meet the specified criteria in the government’s policy statement.
Qualified constituents from the Belair and Odsan regions can purchase these lands at an incredible rate of $2.50 per sq. ft, with plots ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 sq. ft. This administration is committed to enhancing the welfare of its citizens, allowing them the chance to own a piece of land at a minimal cost, between $8,000 and $20,000, the minister stated.
“The cabinet has approved a 10% deposit, enabling buyers to pay for the property over five years,” Henry stated during a media briefing on Monday.
“This means you don’t need to take out a loan; instead, you can coordinate directly with the Ministry of Planning to secure your land right here in Saint Lucia,” he emphasized.
The Castries South East MP reiterated that Prime Minister Phillip J Pierre has made clear the government’s dedication to making affordable land accessible to all.
“I’m pleased that such an impactful initiative is unfolding in Castries South East, particularly in the communities of Odsan and Belair,” Henry declared.
He added, “This initiative will expand throughout Saint Lucia. Prime Minister Pierre is committed to ensuring that every Saint Lucian can own a piece of this beautiful island we proudly call home, the Helen of the West.”
Regarding the qualifying criteria for the project, Henry explained: “An Occupational Survey conducted by a Physical Planner assessed the duration of land occupancy, specifically targeting residential plots of less than 8,000 sq. ft.”
He pointed out that while numerous individuals have occupied these lands for over a decade, the policy stipulates a requirement of 30 years or more. “Thus, 30 residents in Odsan have qualified to receive a parcel of land based on the findings of the occupational survey and further assessments that guided the cabinet’s decision.”
To clarify this policy decision from the cabinet of ministers, Henry concluded, “If someone has been residing on a residential plot of land for 30 years or more, they will rightfully become the owner, free of charge. The occupational survey will facilitate the proper allocation of land, and based on the Prime Minister’s policy, these 30 individuals will be receiving their letters accordingly.”
In summary, he asserted that this initiative is open to residents across communities in Saint Lucia: “If individuals are occupying a residential plot of less than 8,000 sq. ft, it cannot be for commercial or institutional purposes. Those occupying Crown lands under these conditions qualify to receive ownership free of charge.”
R.A.