A property in Middle Town, Pembroke, is facing an overhaul to deliver four affordable apartments as well as a shared residential space.

Zane DeSilva, the Minister of Housing and Municipalities, announced the news of the development at 7 Middle Town Lane, Browne House, named in honour of Dame Lois Browne-Evans, as is a sister property, Evans Cottage.

Flanked by the team at Bermuda Housing Corporation on the property’s communal lawn, Mr DeSilva said the development was part of the Progressive Labour Party’s plan to provide Bermudians with “quality” affordable housing.

The development is part of BHC’s residential building programme.

Mr DeSilva said: “Browne House comprises a four-room rooming house which remains fully occupied and four two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartments.

“The current phase of work is limited to four residential units. These renovations are transforming outdated spaces into modern, efficient and comfortable homes designed for today’s families and individuals.”

Mr DeSilva said that construction began on the property on September 11 with a budget of $775,000 and completion is expected in January 2026.

BHC, which said the two-bed units would be rented for approximately $1,400 a month, is partnering with Vision Construction and Moongate Consulting on the work.

“The work being done is not just a coat of paint and the progress, already visible on site, is remarkable,” Mr DeSilva added.

“Renovations consist of comprehensive internal upgrades that bring the units up to current building codes. Each two-bedroom unit provides approximately 588 sq ft of livable space.

“The rooming house component is not included in this phase but is scheduled for refurbishment under a subsequent phase.”

The renovation at Middle Town is one of several key projects advancing under the Residential Building Programme, which looks to add more than 60 new affordable units across the island.

They include Harmony Terrace east and west in Paget where units have been completed and are now occupied.

Work is to commence on the next phase — Harmony Terrace north.

Mr DeSilva also highlighted Battery Road in St David’s which is entering its final phase to deliver 12 additional units.

Chelsea Apartments in St George’s is nearing completion, he added, with new residents expected early next year.

Mr DeSilva said BHC’s Modular Housing Project is “progressing rapidly” with 11 modular and expandable container homes scheduled for installation within the next few months.

He said the housing would provide immediate relief for those on the BHC wait list while allowing the BHC team to test out “new, cost-effective construction methods”.

“These modular units will complement long-term developments being prepared for 2026 and 2027,” Mr DeSilva added.

“Target sites include Albert Row in Sandys, Dr Cann Park in Southampton, 13 Ewing Street in Hamilton and Harbour View Village in St David’s, which together will deliver a potential 225 new affordable new homes.”

Mr DeSilva said the BHC wait list included more than 300 households, with most seeking one and two-bedroom units.

“This demand reflects the growing needs of seniors, single-parent families and individuals living alone, and underscores why the smaller, affordable units like those here in Middle Town are so essential.”

He said the team continued to support a private sector refurbishment programme helping property owners to bring vacant or underused homes back onto the rental market.

“Our Affordable Housing Strategy 2025 to 2035, under development, will outline our long-term vision for housing delivery, the rehabilitation of derelict properties and new public-private partnerships.

“Together with our Emergency Housing Plan and modular pilot, this strategy forms the blueprint for sustainable, inclusive and adaptable housing.

“Our goal is urgent but straightforward — to ensure that every Bermudian has a safe, adequate and affordable place to call home.

“This about more than bricks and mortar. This is about restoring dignity, strengthening our communities and ensuring that opportunity begins at home.”

Mr DeSilva acknowledged Christopher Famous, the chairman of the board at BHC, and Trina Bean, aide to the minister and a member of the BHC board.

He also thanked the team at BHC led by Paul Martin, chief executive, and Blake Lambert, project manager.

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• To read the minister’s statement in full, see Related Media