Francistown Is Haphazardly Planning :: Mmegi Online

I am rather concerned at what has been happening in Francistown in recent times. The first issue is about the big plot of land that was the original BCL Offices (before they moved to Phikwe) on Blue Jacket Street, (which became the Immigration Offices and the Magistrates courts in the past and now given to the ‘Youth Programme’).

Firstly, all the beautiful bougainvillea plants that surrounded the plot have been cut down. They provided a beautiful façade when they were in bloom. This plot is currently being levelled and paved. Upon enquiry, I was informed that the area has been designated to the youth programme for hawking and vending purposes. While it is a noble idea to provide such vending areas, a serious question comes to mind.

Any developer, especially in the private sector who wishes to develop any area that is designated for business has to comply with certain regulations under the Building Control Act and the Town and Country planning regulations. If it is a proposal for commercial activity the developer has to provide and set aside a certain portion for public parking space/area on his valuable plot. If he does not do so then the proposal is rejected. The plan has to comply with this requirement if the project is to proceed.