Hwange Local Board to demolish illegal structures
Mbekezeli Ncube
The Hwange Local Board (HLB) is set to demolish all illegal structures within its jurisdiction in an effort to enforce compliance and improve infrastructure development standards.
This move comes after a two-year period where the HLB engaged with developers found to be constructing or operating illegally. Town Planner Themba Sibanda reported identifying 45 such instances, with “notices and penalties issued to the offenders,” he said. However, only 10 complied with regulations.
Sibanda confirmed the HLB’s intention to demolish the remaining illegal structures “as soon as possible,” aiming to complete the process before the end of the first quarter of 2024. He emphasized that the HLB “will follow all legal procedures, including board committee discussions, full council approval, and obtaining a court order for demolition,” he said.
Citing the Regional Town and Country Planning Act, the Hwange Local Board 2023 Building By-Law, and the Urban Councils Act, Sibanda emphasized the legality of the demolition. These regulations grant the HLB the authority to order “the removal or demolition of structures built without proper approval and inspections,” he said.
Though it might cause inconvenience or hardship for those affected, the upcoming demolition exercise aims to deter further illegal development and ensure adherence to building regulations. This announcement comes amidst a broader discussion in Zimbabwe about recent demolitions in Harare and other areas. Some argue these actions are necessary to enforce regulations and foster development, while others raise concerns about the potential impact on affected communities and individuals. The situation in Hwange is a specific instance within this larger context.
