The Ada East District Chief Executive (DCE), Kenneth Kabu Kofi Kanor, has disclosed About 70% of buildings in the District have been constructed without permits.
He has therefore cautioned that structures erected without approval, particularly those sited on waterways and in flood-prone areas, risk demolition as the Assembly intensifies enforcement of physical planning regulations.
Speaking in an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA), Mr. Kanor said unauthorised developments remain a major challenge confronting the district, with some developers deliberately bypassing the permit acquisition process before commencing construction.
“We have realised that many people build structures without permits. Some even build on waterways and areas that are not suitable for construction. This is a major challenge for the Assembly,” he said.
He stressed that the Assembly will not hesitate to remove any structures that threaten public safety or obstruct natural watercourses, noting that such developments increase the risk of flooding and environmental degradation.
Mr. Kanor further disclosed that investigations would be conducted into cases where building permits may have been improperly issued for developments in restricted areas, adding that any officials found culpable would be sanctioned.
He said traditional authorities, including the Paramount Chief of the Ada Traditional Area, had pledged support for efforts to enforce planning regulations and promote orderly development in the district.
According to him, the Assembly’s Physical Planning Department is mandated to assess proposed building sites and ensure all developments comply with approved land-use plans.
He therefore urged residents and developers to strictly adhere to building regulations and obtain the necessary permits before commencing construction.
Mr. Kanor emphasised that the permit process is not intended to frustrate developers but to ensure safety and orderly growth.
“The permit process is not intended to frustrate developers. It helps ensure that buildings are constructed in safe locations and in accordance with the district’s development plans,” he said.
He appealed for public cooperation in efforts to curb unauthorised developments, warning that continued construction on waterways could worsen flooding challenges and create long-term environmental and planning problems.
Source: GNA
