adminMidlands Bureau Chief
GWERU City Council has produced a draft master plan to guide the city’s development, focusing on population, economy, housing, transport, community facilities and land use.
City Mayor Councillor Martin Chivhoko said the draft master plan was developed by a private consultant based on public input, surveys, planning initiatives, existing development, physical characteristics and social and economic conditions.
This follows President Mnangagwa’s launch last November of the blueprint: “A Call to Action — No Compromise to Service Delivery”, which outlined first stage interventions to modernise the operations of local authorities towards Vision 2030.
All 92 local authorities have been directed to submit master plans by the end of this month as part of efforts to enhance service delivery.
Gweru’s master plan comes at a time when residents and ratepayers are complaining about poor service delivery as evidenced by heaps of uncollected garbage in the suburbs, unreliable water supply and sewer bursts that are not being attended to.
Cllr Chivhoko said the comprehensive document will serve as a roadmap for Gweru’s future growth and development, guiding decisions on infrastructure, urban planning and economic development.
“Today marks a significant milestone for our beloved City of Gweru. It is with great pleasure and pride that I announce the receipt and adoption of the draft master plan for our city as a local authority..
“We are handing over the document to the Minister of State for Midlands Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Owen Ncube, on Friday (today). From there we will reveal the name of the private firm that worked on it as well as the cost of coming up with this document.”
Cllr Chivhoko said collaborative efforts of stakeholders, including residents, businesses and Government entities, ensured that the master plan reflects the needs and aspirations of the community.
“This master plan will help shape the city’s future by addressing challenges and capitalising on opportunities to create a thriving economy for residents,” he said.
“Your expertise, insights and collaborative spirit have been invaluable in gathering the information and perspectives necessary to create a robust and forward-thinking master plan. Your participation has truly embodied the spirit of community and collective responsibility and for that, we are deeply thankful.”
Cllr Chivhoko said it was crucial to recognize that the drafting of the master plan was not the final step but rather a significant phase in the ongoing journey towards sustainable development and growth.
To ensure the plan is inclusive and representative, council will provide an opportunity for the public to scrutinise the draft before the final document.
“This period of public review will allow residents to make contributions, suggestions and even objections. It is through this transparent and participatory process that we can refine and enhance the plan to ensure it meets the needs and aspirations of our citizens,” he said.
Online Reporter