Online Reporter
Blessings Chidakwa
Herald Reporter
Harare City Council has said it is reviewing a document outlining possible action on illegal structures.
The council stated that its draft document titled “Report on Regularisation and Demolitions of Illegal Structures in Harare”, which is circulating on social media, is still under internal review and has not yet been adopted as official policy.
Panic has gripped the city over the contents of the document, which reveals that demolitions are on the cards.
“The aforementioned document is a preliminary internal working draft currently under review and is scheduled for deliberation by the relevant council committee,” reads a statement from the council.
“Its appearance in the public domain at this stage is premature, as it represents an administrative working paper.”
According to the council, a process of verification and enforcement will begin soon, targeting illegal developments on council, State, and privately-owned land.
Harare City Council stated that this process will strictly follow existing legal procedures and national directives, including the provisions of the Regional, Town and Country Planning Act.
“Residents are strongly advised to refrain from engaging in further illegal activities, including the acquisition of land from unauthorised individuals and the unlawful occupation of council and State land,” the city said.
“The city will take appropriate action to address such contraventions.”
Officials are encouraging residents with concerns about land to contact council offices directly to obtain accurate information.
The statement also emphasises the need for compliance, as the council moves to address growing cases of unapproved developments across the city.
