Sri Lanka's Government has decided to lease out five unused Presidential Mansions across the country to private investors for tourism projects, aiming to reduce public expenditure on maintenance while generating economic returns.

The Government has identified five Presidential Mansions for long-term leasing to facilitate tourism investment initiatives. The properties located in Bentota, Kataragama, Mahiyanganaya, Embilipitiya, and Anuradhapura will be made available to suitable investors through a competitive proposal process.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake submitted the proposal to the Cabinet of Ministers on 27th, citing that these mansions, though historically maintained as official residences and presidential retreats, are not currently being utilised by the sitting President. The Government noted that the properties hold significant architectural and economic value, featuring comprehensive facilities and well-maintained landscaped grounds.

According to official statements, the primary motivation for the leasing initiative is financial. The Presidential Secretariat currently funds all maintenance, security, and operational expenses for these properties through the public budget. By transferring management to private investors, the Government aims to reduce this recurring expenditure while allowing the properties to generate economic activity through tourism development.

The decision follows recommendations from a committee tasked with identifying economically productive uses for the mansions. The Government plans to invite investment proposals from interested parties and subsequently lease the properties on a long-term basis to those deemed suitable for implementing tourism projects.