The government has turned its focus to the possibility of repurposing official residences, previously allocated for cabinet ministers, into tourist accommodations as part of a strategic shift in the use of state assets. This proposal is being explored by the Ministry of Public Administration, which is expected to consult the cabinet for approval soon.
These 28 ministerial residences, currently managed by the Ministry of Public Administration, have been made available as ministers no longer occupy them. The decision comes after President Anura Dissanayake’s recent declaration that future cabinet ministers will not receive official residences in Colombo. This approach not only reduces government expenses but also aims to generate revenue by converting these properties into guesthouses or tourist lodges.
The plan aligns with a broader government initiative to optimize the use of state properties and relieve pressure on the national budget. If approved, the residences will be renovated and adapted to meet the needs of tourists, with facilities reimagined to attract both local and foreign visitors. This would create a new stream of income for the government, while also potentially adding value to Colombo’s tourism offerings.
