An historical East End building has been turned into an affordable housing complex.

Chelsea House in St George’s has been redeveloped into three two-bedroom apartments and two three-bedroom apartments, which are expected to be filled by mid-November.

Zane DeSilva, the Minister of Housing and Municipalities, said the renovation was one of several projects to add to Bermuda’s housing stock.

He added: “Chelsea reminds us that progress is not made by turning over soil or cutting ribbons.

“Real progress is taking a property that sat vacant for more than a decade and bringing it back to life.

“Real progress is creating homes for families, strengthening neighbourhoods, preserving valuable community assets and delivering outcomes that improve people’s lives.”

The renovation was part of the Affordable Housing Plan, which includes a revival of derelict buildings for housing and a wider scheme to put 229 new residential units on to the market.

Chelsea House’s renovations were assisted by the Bermuda Housing Corporation. Work on the property was one of seven renewal projects across the island.

The complex, a Grade 3-listed building from 1874, underwent significant renovations, including sealing the walls against moisture and installing a new ventilation system.

Mr DeSilva said the renovations had cost about $2.7 million — an investment he described as “significant but worthwhile” and that ultimately fell below budget.

He added: “Too often, when we talk about housing, the conversation focuses exclusively on new construction.

“While new homes are important, this government remains committed to increasing Bermuda’s housing stock.”

Mr DeSilva further said: “That is what Chelsea represents — not a promise, not a plan and not an artist’s rendering.

“It is five completed family homes, 12 bedrooms added to the Bermuda housing stock and a once neglected property restored to productive use for the benefit of Bermudians.

“Today, Chelsea stands as a tangible example of progress and I am proud of what has been accomplished.”

New residents will be chosen based on need and suitable applicants on a waiting list.

The minister admitted that shipping constraints caused by the Iran war, which led to difficulties transporting goods through the Strait of Hormuz, caused problems in getting the necessary materials.

He added: “A lot of material comes out of China and we’re looking at different avenues of getting material here.

“It’ll continue to be a challenge but we will continue to press on.”

Two-bedroom apartments will be rented out at $1,800 per month, while the three-bedroom apartments will go for $2,200 a month.

Mr DeSilva said other apartment buildings on Battery Road, also in St George’s, and Harmony Terrace North, in Paget, would be completed in about six months.