The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Barrister Chijioke Ojukwu has warned that architects who persist in submitting building plans that violate the state’s physical planning regulations may face disciplinary action, including petitions to their professional regulatory body.
Barr. Ojukwu issued the warning in a statement, expressing concern over what he described as widespread non-compliance with the state’s physical planning laws.
According to the commissioner, a review of more than 200 building permit applications received since he assumed office revealed that many failed to meet the requirements of the Anambra State Physical Planning Law, particularly the provisions governing setbacks and permissible building coverage.
Barr. Ojukwu noted that the level of non-compliance was disturbing, considering that architects are professionally trained and licensed to design buildings in line with approved planning standards.
He observed that some of the building plans submitted proposed structures covering as much as 90 per cent of the available land space, leaving little or no provision for essential facilities such as parking spaces and adequate setbacks.
“The most common violations identified are the disregard for setback requirements and excessive building coverage. It is unacceptable for building designs to occupy almost the entire plot, leaving no room for parking or proper environmental planning,” he said.
The commissioner urged architects to uphold the ethics of their profession by ensuring that all building plans submitted for approval comply fully with the state’s physical planning regulations.
He warned that continued disregard for the law would compel the ministry to petition the Disciplinary Committee of the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) to take appropriate action against offending professionals, including possible blacklisting.
Barr. Ojukwu reaffirmed the commitment of the Soludo administration to orderly urban development, stressing that strict compliance with physical planning regulations is essential to creating safe, functional and sustainable cities across Anambra State.
He called on all built environment professionals to support the government’s efforts by adhering to approved standards and promoting responsible urban development.
