By Chinedum Treasure
The Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP), Anambra State Chapter, has called for broad stakeholders’ consultation over the proposed amendment of the Anambra State Physical Planning Law.
The State Chairman, Tpl. Ifeanyi Igwilo, made the call during a visit to the office of the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Tochukwu Nweke, in Awka.
Igwilo said the Institute was ready to partner with government and other stakeholders to build a well-planned, sustainable and economically vibrant Anambra State.
He urged the government to formally consult town planners and other built-environment professionals before major changes are made to the existing law.
According to him, the government should first examine the implementation of the current law and address identified administrative and institutional gaps.
He called for consultations involving town planners, architects, engineers, surveyors, estate surveyors, environmental professionals, government agencies, traditional institutions and local governments.
Former NITP Chairman, Tpl. Ben Okoye, also raised concerns over the non-constitution of local planning authorities as provided by the existing law.
Okoye said proper implementation of the law would help address problems associated with developments carried out without regard to approved planning standards.
He explained that the law provides for a planning authority comprising professionals and representatives of relevant government and community institutions to facilitate physical planning and development control at the grassroots.
Responding, Nweke acknowledged the importance of consultation in the proposed amendment, saying critical stakeholders should be carried along in the legislative process.
He, however, noted that some of the issues raised by the town planners were outside the direct jurisdiction of the Ministry of Justice.
Nweke promised to liaise with the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development on the concerns relating to the proposed law, staffing and other institutional matters.
He said the ministry would support efforts to ensure that the appropriate processes were followed.
Tags: Anambra State, Physical Planning, Town Planners, Urban Development
