The Cabinet of Ministers has approved a proposal by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to lease several Presidential Residences for long‑term tourism investment projects, aiming to make better economic use of state‑owned properties.
The residences, located in Bentota, Kataragama, Mahiyanganaya, Embilipitiya, and Anuradhapura, were originally built for official and leisure use by past presidents.
However, they are not currently utilized by the incumbent President. Despite their high architectural and economic value, the residences continue to incur significant state expenditure for maintenance, security, and related costs under the Presidential Secretariat.
Taking into account recommendations from a committee appointed to identify mechanisms for the productive use of government‑owned bungalows, houses, and residences, the Cabinet endorsed the plan to invite proposals from suitable investors.
The initiative is expected to integrate these properties into the tourism sector, generating revenue while preserving their cultural and architectural significance. (Newswire)