Demolition of abandoned property leaves men homeless

Several men who occupied an abandoned property in Reed Street, The City were evicted on Tuesday.

Barbados TODAY understands that at least two of them will receive help through the Welfare Department in finding a place to stay.

However, one of them, Vincentian-born Milton Browne said he will be seeking a place of abode on his own accord.

According to sources close to the matter, the property was abandoned for well over ten years and has been occupied without the owner’s permission.

Sources said the owner of the property submitted a writ of possession to the court as they wanted to develop the area.

With the help of lawmen, Browne removed his belongings before the demolition began around 9:30 a.m.

He said he was not in need of help as he had some personal possessions, including food, he would use to help him get by.

The Vincentian said that he travelled to Barbados in the 1970s and worked as a cane cutter for many years.

The elderly man, who is in his 80s, added that he then made a living recycling bottles.

He said he had 12 children but they all lived in his homeland.

(SZB)