Online Reporter
Diana Nherera
Herald Reporter
HARARE Mayor Councillor Jacob Mafume has urged residents and property owners who failed to regularise their developments during the Government’s 90-day moratorium on land use and reservation changes to do so urgently.
Speaking during the 1947th Ordinary Council Meeting at Town House on Thursday, Clr Mafume said council wanted to ensure that all developments complied with legal requirements to avoid future demolitions and disputes.
He warned that failure to regularise illegal structures and land use changes could result in enforcement action by council.
“Let us regularise what we have been doing and submit the necessary applications,” said Clr Mafume.
“We want to ensure that we follow the law regarding the developments we allow in the city so that people do not end up in tears when buildings or structures have to be demolished.”
The Government recently introduced a 90-day moratorium to allow local authorities to process applications for changes of reservations and land use as part of efforts to improve urban planning and regularise developments.
Clr Mafume said council preferred compliance and cooperation rather than punitive action against residents and developers.
“We do not want to be forced to punish defaulters. People should take advantage of this opportunity to regularise their properties and developments,” he said.
