A derelict St George’s building will be transformed into apartments in a $2.3 million redevelopment planned for completion next year, the Minister of Housing and Municipalities said today.

Zane DeSilva explained that the Chelsea property on Redcoat Lane North is being renovated to accommodate eight apartments comprising two and three-bedroom units.

The complex, a grade 3 listed building, dates back to 1874 and has been derelict for about eight years.

Mr DeSilva said: “[The apartments] will be modern, comfortable spaces, but they will also retain the architectural charm and character that make this building so special.”

The Bermuda Housing Corporation submitted plans to renovate the property in January 2024, the proposal was approved four months later.

Local contractor Millwood Construction is leading renovations at the 7,000 sq ft facility, the roof has been fully restored and further work includes installing new plumbing, electrical systems, windows and flooring.

Mr DeSilva said: “The overall refurbishment is expected to cost $2.3 million and is on track for completion in the second half of 2026.”

He added: “As important as Chelsea is, it is one part of the bigger picture — across the island, we are working across multiple fronts to increase the housing supply, improve living standards and respond to urgent needs.”

The minister, who is also the Deputy Premier, said that 260 households are on BHC’s waiting list, with the greatest need seen for one and two-bedroom apartments, and that work is ongoing at other BHC properties.

He explained: “At 18 Battery Road in St David’s, we are in phase 3 of the project that will deliver 12 new units, including four two-bedrooms, six studios and two one-bedrooms, by early 2026.”

Construction will begin of units in Middle Town, Pembroke and 16 units at Harmony Terrace North in Paget are to be built upon planning approval.

Mr DeSilva said: “We are also advancing an emergency modular housing plan to quickly provide safe, quality accommodation for those in immediate need.”

He added: “This plan is a work in progress, locations will be throughout the island.

“BHC has many properties around the island. Morgan’s Point is under my remit — that is being looked at, as well as the Bermuda Land Management Company’s properties, of which there are many.”

Mr DeSilva thanked Christopher Famous, BHC chairman and chief executive Paul Martin for their hard work.

He concluded: “[The Chelsea project] is just one piece of a comprehensive plan to ensure that every Bermudian has a safe, adequate and affordable place to call home.”