Minister Manickchand Visits Skull City Squatting Area 

December 10 2025

Local Government and Regional Development Minister Priya Manickchand visited the Skull City squatting area at Patentia, West Bank Demerara, on Wednesday as part of continued efforts to engage communities and address on-the-ground challenges.

During the walkabout, the Minister met with residents, listened to their concerns, and assessed ongoing infrastructural and environmental issues.

She noted that the area is currently undergoing regularisation by the Ministry of Housing, with 33 households already allocated land, and additional allocations now being processed.

According to Manickchand, the cadastral plan has been lodged with the Registry and the block title is being prepared, with completion expected in the first quarter of 2026.

The Minister also spoke with the contractor executing road works in the area, who assured her that associated drainage upgrades will be completed by the end of January 2026.

She added that engineers will assess whether space is available for the development of a park and vendor strip to serve the community.

Manickchand stressed that government remains committed to supporting vulnerable and informal settlements, ensuring equitable and sustainable development for all citizens.

The Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development says it will continue working closely with communities nationwide to advance infrastructure improvements, regularisation programmes, and overall quality of life.