Authorities in Grindavík consider temporary housing development for evacuated residents

Authorities in Grindavík are considering the establishment of a temporary housing development for residents who have not secured permanent accommodations after the evacuation of the town last November. Árni Þór Sigurðsson, chair of the committee addressing Grindavík’s affairs, stated that the committee is working on a comprehensive action plan regarding housing issues. Several families, elderly individuals, couples without children, and single residents are still seeking permanent homes.

Efforts are being made in collaboration with non-profit property companies and nearby municipalities to explore solutions concerning land and housing. A summer survey indicated that around sixty percent of Grindavík residents have had to relocate more than three times since the evacuation, with many expressing a desire to remain in the Suðurnes region.

The exact location of the new housing development has not yet been determined, but it is likely to be situated in Reykjanesbær or Suðurnesjabær, as most residents wish to stay in that area. Alternatives in Ölfus and even the capital region are also under consideration, where property companies might purchase housing.

This proposal resembles actions taken following the volcanic eruption in the Westman Islands, where many houses built by the Disaster Relief Fund have proven durable over time. Sigurðsson hopes the committee will be able to deliver proposals or possible solutions within the next month.