A bill for a law to make provision for Urban and Regional Planning has scaled through second reading at Enugu State House of Assembly.
The bill aims to restore the original master plan of the state and attracted contributions and support of the lawmakers during plenary in Enugu on Tuesday.
In his lead debate, the leader of the House, Mr. Ikechukwu Ezeugwu, member representing Udenu constituency, said that the bill would complement the frantic efforts of the current state government to maintain the original master plan of Enugu as the former capital of the Eastern region.
Ezeugwu noted that the bill would ensure that structures and buildings are erected in compliance with the state urban laws as well as empower a new body to be set up; they will be charged with the responsibility of ensuring strict compliance with the urban laws.
Currently, almost all streets within Enugu metropolis is turned into market and illegal structures springing up everywhere thereby defacing the city and altering the original beautiful plan of the state.
“These unauthorized markets and illegal structures are contrary to the agenda of the Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi-led administration, hence his efforts to restore the city back to its former glory” Ezeugwu said.
He also pointed out that having a well-planned urban city would not only save the state from loss of lives and properties associated with building collapse but also would project the state as conducive for investment and holiday destination.
The Deputy Speaker of the Assembly, Mr. Uche Ugwu, member representing Udi North constituency, in his remarks commended the timely nature of the Executive bill. The bill, he said will back up the on-going demolitions of illegal structures within the metropolis. He further noted that although owners of the illegal structures may not be happy about the new development, it became necessary for the overall good of the state.
Ugwu also noted that the bill forbids anybody or organization from building along water ways or unauthorized places as seen in time past which at long run causes huge loss of resources.
He also emphasized that the move would further make Enugu a much more beautiful city capable of attracting tourists, which will boost the revenue of the state government.
The Speaker of the Assembly, Edward Ubosi, commended his colleagues for their contributions during the debate and thereafter referred the bill to House committees on Land and Foreign Investment, Capital territory and Judiciary Matters for further inputs if any and to organize Public Hearings.
The Committee is to submit their report to the House within the next three weeks.
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