Deputy Premier Hon. Sean Astwood, Ministerof Infrastructure, Housing, Planning, and Development, announced upcomingchanges to make Crown Land more affordable and accessible for Turks and CaicosIslanders. In an interview with The SUN, Astwood revealed thatgovernment is amending the Crown Land Policy, eliminating the controversiallottery system for land distribution and replacing it with a morestraightforward application process.

Astwood explained that locals identifyingCrown Land for commercial purposes would no longer face a competitive biddingprocess, restoring the advantage to the initial applicant. Additionally, thegovernment is reviewing current valuations, which often exceed market rates, toensure prices are fair and reflective of local realities. Discussions alsoinclude waiving penalties on land that requires improvements.

The Deputy Premier noted that theseamendments build on efforts initiated by the previous administration and willsoon be outlined in detail by the Premier during a town hall meeting inProvidenciales. By revising the Crown Land Policy, the government aims toempower Turks and Caicos Islanders with greater access to affordable land whilesupporting sustainable growth and economic opportunities.