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he Chinese word for “Crises” is frequently invoked in motivational speaking along with the statement that the two characters it is composed of, represent “danger” and “opportunity.” Following the dangerous passage of hurricane Ivan in 2004, there was indeed an opportunity, and one of the main recipients, was the Construction industry. With estimates of around 90% of the homes on island, destroyed or badly damaged after the hurricane, the industry was core to the rebuilding process coupled with the abundance of ‘new money’ injected into the local economy, via Insurance payouts and an increase in foreign remittances. Then the global recession hit. Fuelled by a world financial meltdown, the scenario quickly changed negatively for Grenada’s Construction industry. The industries woes became apparent in 2010 where it was estimated to be down some 25% over previous years. The years following “Ivan” saw the industry explode with over 90% growth. Plagued by a number of large projects stuck in a holding pattern, trying to attract foreign direct investment, in a wary and sluggish global environment, those companies that have survived are now leaner and more efficient than they have ever been. As the outlook now looks considerably brighter, Construction companies in Grenada are in good shape, waiting for the next boom. “Ivan” in all its devastation, proved to be the catalyst for the drastic improvements needed in the building industry. The Grenada Building Code Post “Ivan” the Grenada Government realized the crucial need of a standardized building code and with the aid of the Agency for Reconstruction and Development (ARD) designed the Grenada Building Code that became a role model for much of the Caribbean. In 2006 the ARD became the Physical Planning Unit (PPU) within the Ministry of Works. The PPU is comprised of two sections Forward Planning and Development Control, and it is here that the implementation of Grenada’s Building Code and Guides are enforced. The formation of the Construction Association of Grenada also aides in increasing awareness that adhering to the Building Code, can and will avoid costly mistakes. Homes in Grenada are typically built from either wood or concrete. Pre- engineered/pre built wooden homes can begin as low as E.C $100 per sq ft (see page 74-75) and Concrete ranges from US$80 to over U.S.$125+ per sq.ft depending on quality of finishings and fixtures. Building in the Tropics needs careful consideration to maximize the cooling trade winds, the terrain, the view and orientation. In the new arena of safety, intelligent design and sustainable building in Grenada, the major stakeholders including Architects, Builders Contractors, Banks and Insurance companies continue to strive to improve the industry by adjusting their product offerings. Materials such as roofing and windows are to Miami Dade County Hurricane proof safety standards. We are now seeing more use of the insulation in walls and ceilings, not to contain heat, but deflect it. Focus on improving water and energy efficiency is trending in many new builds. Through the various considerations of efficiency, the environment, functionality, practicality and improved standards, a sustainable construction industry has emerged in Grenada. Grenada the ‘Phoenix’ has indeed emerged from the ‘ashes’ of Hurricane Ivan. PROCEDURES, TIME, AND COSTS TO BUILD A WAREHOUSE IN GRENADA. 1 Obtain location plan from Land & Survey Office: According to the Grenada Building Code, a location plan showing “the name and position of the existing roads, fixed and easily identifiable points such as streams, road junctions, bridges and nearby houses” must be obtained from the Lands and Survey Office before submitting the application for a development permit. The process takes 1 day and there is no charge. 2 Obtain Development Permit from Land Development Control Authority (LDCA). The LDCA sends copies of the documents to the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Works, a structural engineer, and an www.businessgrenada.com
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