Residents of Mary Victoria Road, Alexandra Road and Cedar Park met with government ministers this week to share their thoughts and concerns about their community.

Zane DeSilva, the housing minister, was joined by Jaché Adams, the public works minister, Diallo Rabain, the Minister of the Cabinet Office and Digital Information, and Alexa Lightbourne, the Minister of Home Affairs, at the meeting on Tuesday.

Mr DeSilva told attendees that the meeting at Prospect Primary School was an “important beginning”.

“Our ministry was created to focus directly on issues facing neighbourhoods just like Alexandra Road, Mary Victoria Road and Cedar Park, and I want you to know that you have my full commitment, and that of my ministry, to listen, to work with you and to deliver results,” he said.

“We plan to form a working group that will include residents, key technical staff from the ministries of Housing and Municipalities, Public Works and Environment and the Bermuda Housing Corporation.

“This is your community, and your voices must lead this work.”

Residents at the meeting raised concerns about several issues including street lighting, accessibility, community safety, illegal dumping and challenges with the water infrastructure.

Mr Adams said that the Ministry of Public Works and the Environment had committed to implementing a water and wastewater master plan for the area.

“This meeting comes after weeks, months or even years of dealing with the same unresolved issues,” he said. “I have heard your complaints loud and clear.

“What many of you have experienced with your water service is simply not acceptable. It is not just a matter of inconvenience. It has disrupted your routines, undermined your confidence and left many of you frustrated.”

Mr Adams added that the ministry was looking at a “long-term” approach including a wholesale redevelopment of the systems in addition to immediate repairs.

Ms Lightbourne, the area MP, said she was grateful to the residents who were willing to share their experiences and suggestions.

“Together, as a government and as a community, we are moving forward with a shared commitment to build safer, stronger neighbourhoods that reflect the dignity of the people who live in them,” she said.

Mr Rabain, meanwhile, said he had been working closely with the residents to understand and address their concerns.

“I am committed to working with my fellow ministerial colleagues to bring about the necessary changes and improvements,” he said.

“The residents deserve a safe, well-maintained neighbourhood, and we will continue to engage with them to make this a reality.”

The Government announced in its Throne Speech this year that it would produce a master plan to address longstanding infrastructure problems in the area including “water and sewage, lighting and general home improvement”.