The Minister of Housing Bassem bin Yacoub Al Hamer today signed an agreement with CEO of Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Corporation Jonathan Berger and Nass Constructions CEO Ghazi Abdullah Nass to begin the first phase of reclamation of the marine area for the East Hidd housing project. The agreement after the company had won the tender for the project at a cost of BD 24.4 million and work is expected to start in the few coming days. The ministry is placing great ambitions on this project in resolving the list of names requesting housing unit especially those in the Muharraq governorate and would provide 4000 to 5000 houses. These houses would accommodate approximately 25 thousand people and the project covers a total of 227 hectares. Meanwhile, the project would also include providing all the facilities such as commercial areas, mosques and parks for residents. Al Hamer said that the signing of the agreement represented a great step towards effective solutions for housing issues that the ministry was committed to implement. Moreover, he indicated that the project came under the strategy of building the modern cities of Bahrain which also includes the Northern city, and East Sitra city. Al Hamer hailed the continued supported by the leadership for housing projects and towards further elevating the living standards of citizens by providing appropriate living units. The minister extended his thanks and appreciation to His Majesty King Hamad Al Khalifa, His Royal Highness the Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander.