As Guyana’s oil and gas industry continues its rapid expansion, there is an increasing need for robust onshore infrastructure to support these activities. Recognizing this demand, Trinuyana Investments Inc which is a consortium of Trinidadian and Guyanese, investors has proposed a substantial USD$120 million mixed-use development project to cater to the growing influx of expatriates and young professionals in Guyana. This initiative is aimed at addressing the burgeoning need for high-quality, affordable housing and commercial retail facilities.
The project will be located on a 16.5-acre plot of land known as “Plot JAI,” which is a portion of Plantation Ogle and Plantation Goedverwagting on the East Coast of Demerara. The development will include a combination of townhouses, office spaces, a supermarket, and a shopping plaza. The design and construction of this project will incorporate green and smart engineering technologies in alignment with Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards, and the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11 for sustainable cities and communities.
In its project summary submitted to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), it noted that the current housing and commercial retail infrastructure in Guyana is largely traditional, with a limited number of business-oriented properties meeting international standards. These are mostly concentrated around the Ogle area.
The new development by Trinuyana Investments aims to fill this gap by providing modern, well-priced housing and commercial spaces. This is particularly critical as the oil and gas industry attracts a significant number of expatriates and local professionals who require contemporary living and working environments.
The development project is structured into four key phases: design, pre-construction, construction, and operation.
The design phase, slated to last three months, focuses on creating a balance between cost efficiency and sustainable development. The design will ensure that human health and environmental integrity are not compromised during construction and operation. Adhering to internal standards and best practices, the project will utilize the best available technology, smart and green engineering techniques, and leadership in energy and environmental design approaches. This phase also involves obtaining all necessary regulatory approvals from entities such as the Neighbourhood District Council, Central Housing and Planning Authority and EPA.
During the two-month pre-construction phase, site development activities will include excavating soft spots in the subgrade and clearing the land of small trees and vegetation. External reinforced concrete drains will be constructed, and a bridge will be built to provide access to the site, allowing for backfilling to the appropriate construction levels.
The construction phase, expected to span one year, will involve building the structures using a mix of structural steel, mass and reinforced concrete, glass, and timber for interior finishes. Construction will progress concurrently on both the substructure and superstructure for all amenities in the mixed-use property. During this period, 150-200 construction workers will be employed full-time.
Upon completion, the facilities will operate to international standards and best practices. The project is designed with a life expectancy of over 100 years, ensuring long-term sustainability and functionality, according to Trinuyana.
Furthermore, the integration of green engineering and LEED standards aims to minimize environmental impact while promoting energy efficiency and sustainability. This approach not only supports environmental goals but also ensures that the development remains resilient and adaptive to future challenges.
