Lagos marks 349 distressed structures for demolition, grants 5,961 planning permits
By Sodiq Adelakun
In a bid to prevent building collapses and ensure a safer built environment, the Lagos State Government has identified and marked 349 distressed structures for demolition.
This was disclosed by the State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr Oluyinka Olumide, disclosed this at a press briefing to mark the first year of the second term in office of Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Wednesday in Lagos.
He also revealed that the state government granted 5,961 planning permits out of 8,042 applications received in the last one year, demonstrating a commitment to responsible urban planning and development.
In his words: “The office, through the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority, within the reported period granted a total of 5,961 planning permits out of 8,042 applications representing 74.1 percent rate.
“We hope to enhance planning permits applications and fast-track the approval process through many initiatives that we have introduced including sustained public enlightenment and sensitisation programmes, the amnesty programme and 40 percent rebate to civil servants.
“The structures earmarked for demolition include those that have been built in violation of fundamental building regulations,” the Commissioner explained.
While buttressing structures that are qualified for demolition, he added, “If you build on a gas pipeline, if you build on high tension, on drainage, building on right of way. These are the basics we have.”
He added, “If you have approval, you must adhere to the setback, if you add more to the approved plan, your buildings are qualified for removal.”
On the recently demolished buildings at Mende, the Commissioner explained, “If you feel you are not fairly treated, you can approach our.appeal committee, it is meant for the public.
“When the Commissioner for Environment asked the building owners at Mende if they have title approvals, none of them had approval.”
Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on E-GIS and Planning Matters, Dr. Olajide Babatunde, disclosed that 85 percent of the marked properties have already been removed through collaborative efforts with the owners.
Dr. Babatunde warned building owners to take advantage of the 90-day amnesty granted by the state government to regularize their properties, as the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) will take charge once the amnesty expires.
He emphasised the need for building owners to obtain a certificate of fitness in addition to their building approval.
“We have collaborative efforts with those who owned the buildings. If you see that your building has structural defects, notify us, don’t wait until the damage is done. If you see something, say something.
“The programme comes up every Thursday. It is done in collaboration with the ministry of information and strategy at the public affairs unit. It is meant for urban development.
“There is amnesty presently, once it is over, LASBCA will take charge. As you are getting your approval, ensure that you also get your certificate of fitness,” he reiterated.
He added that with the increasing urban regeneration and development in the State, including projects like the Red Line, Blue Line, Purple Line, and other infrastructure initiatives, more people would be drawn to these corridors.
