The Spatial Planning Committee met on 24th April, 2025 at the District Assembly conference room to discuss issues relating the development of the communities in the District.

There was enquires about the community fire volunteers and the representative from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) explained that all arrangements had been made, and they were awaiting the arrival of the District Chief Executive (DCE) for the official inauguration. Mr. Owusu Mensah Amos suggested involving the Acting DCE to expedite the process, given the urgency. Mr. Ntiamoah Justice noted that the program could proceed if the outstanding financial matters were resolved; otherwise, it would have to be delayed. The GNFS representative reiterated that everything was ready and proposed that the inauguration be scheduled for the fourth quarter. The Secretary supported proceeding if financial issues could be addressed, stressing that fire outbreaks are emergencies that require swift action.

Concerns were raised regarding the GNFS’s refusal to use the designated building provided in the district and the Chairman also brought up the issue of the fire tender. The GNFS representative explained that the facility did not meet the institution’s standards and would require modifications. However, committee members urged the representative to liaise with GNFS leadership to reconsider this stance. They recommended that the facility be used temporarily while necessary upgrades are made, citing the urgency of the project for the District. The Chairman further suggested that management urgently discuss this matter to facilitate the procurement of the tools and resources needed by GNFS.

The GNFS also proposed forming a District Fire Sub-Committee to address fire-related issues and support the rollout of the fire prevention program. A suggestion was made to formally write to the Electricity Company of Ghana, requesting the establishment of a local office. This move would ease the burden on residents seeking their services.

On another front, the committee discussed forming a joint committee between NADMO and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The NADMO representative informed the committee that the proposal had already been submitted to the District Coordinating Director (DCD). He noted that the campaign has been ongoing, but progress is pending the appointment of a new Director following a change in government. However, the committee agreed that since the current management remains in place, activities can continue. They emphasized the need for both NADMO and EPA to collaboratively design a program and accompanying budget for presentation to the Assembly. Additionally, the Secretary suggested producing a jingle to be broadcast across local information centers to raise public awareness.
Business of the day

The Physical Planning Officer raised concerns regarding the prosecution of individuals responsible for unauthorized structures. He called on the Registrar for guidance on the judicial process.
In response, the Registrar outlined the documentation required by the court to initiate prosecution. These include:
• A copy of the enforcement notice
• The date the “Stop Work” order was issued
• Photographic evidence of the site

He emphasized that the court requires the presence of either the Physical Planner, Environmental Officer, or Engineer during proceedings. These responsibilities should not be delegated to junior officers. A formal docket referencing the applicable laws and regulations would be created for each case.
Regarding demolition, the Registrar explained that comprehensive video documentation is essential. This includes recordings before, during, and after the demolition, which would serve as evidence in court. He stressed that demolition falls under civil cases and cannot be carried out without a court injunction.
Mr. Justice inquired whether enforcement could begin only after the building has been completed. The Registrar clarified that action can be taken as soon as construction begins, but again emphasized that demolition must be sanctioned by a court.
Hon. Appiah Francis asked about the steps required for a proper community layout in his electoral area. The Physical Planning Officer responded that planning processes must be followed before any demarcation is done. If demolitions are necessary, they would be carried out accordingly. The Registrar added that demolitions cannot proceed without compensation, and advised that, where possible, demarcations should accommodate existing structures to minimize the Assembly’s liability.
The Physical Planning Officer further stressed the importance of collaboration with local chiefs (Odikro) in preparing local plans. He expressed concern over the reluctance of some chiefs to cooperate, which hampers the Assembly’s ability to carry out effective planning and demarcation.
Mr. Owusu Mensah Amos supported the importance of the local plans and layouts, highlighting their long-term benefits to the District. He recommended that, despite limited resources, the Assembly should prioritize the development of local plans and allocate necessary funds to complete them.

Approval of Permits
The committee received eight (8) applications for permit approval. After thorough review, the committee unanimously agreed that all required documentation must be submitted before any final decision is made.
Out of the eight applications:
• Seven (7) were approved
• One (1) was deferred due to incomplete documentation
Any Other Matters
The Ghana National Fire Service rep pleaded that when permits are requested, he should be personally informed for actions to be taken from his end. He further suggested some residential buildings should be mandated to provide fire permit since domestic fires are on the rise.
Mr Ntiamoah Justice raised concerns about how the settlements have been scattered at Apaho and Subima with increase in the construction of mini filling stations which are being placed haphazardly within the community.
The Physical Planning Officer enquired about the laws governing the process in request for a fire permit. The Fire Officer explained that any building with a certain number of rooms is required to have building permits. He then entreated the technical committee to follow-up on applicants and ensure all recommendations are executed or applied.
The chairman suggested the committee should put the necessary measures in place and avoid the assumptions that they wouldn’t be to finance those permits. He then brought back the concerns raised by the registrar on the distraction of the road leading from Jacobu to Fiankoma but ‘Galamsey’ activities and actions should be taken to avoid further distraction.
There were concerns raised on the relocation of the Okada riders to the area opposite the District Health Directorate. The Physical Planning Officer noted that since the attention of the committee has been drawn, the necessary action will be taken.

DECISIONS
1. The fire service should make use of the available building provided by the Assembly in order to facilitate the acquisition of a fire tender.

2. Formation of a collaborative team between NADMO and EPA to address environmental issues in the District and also produce a jingle which will be played on radio stations to create awareness.

3. Follow-ups should be done on client who request for permits to ensure that all necessary requirements are executed.