The District Chief Executive for Ada East District, Kenneth Kabu Kofi Kanor, has raised alarm over widespread non-compliance with building regulations, revealing that about 70 per cent of structures in the district have been put up without official permits.
He warned that buildings constructed without approval—especially those located on waterways and flood-prone zones—face possible demolition as the assembly intensifies efforts to enforce physical planning laws and curb environmental risks.
Speaking to the Ghana News Agency, Mr Kanor said unauthorised development has become a major challenge, with some residents deliberately ignoring the permit process and erecting structures in unsafe locations.
He stressed that the assembly will take action against buildings that endanger lives or obstruct natural water channels, adding that investigations will also be carried out into cases where permits may have been improperly issued, with sanctions for officials found culpable.
The DCE disclosed that traditional leaders in the area, including the Paramount Chief of the Ada Traditional Area, have pledged support for enforcement measures aimed at ensuring orderly development.
He explained that the Physical Planning Department is responsible for vetting all proposed developments to ensure compliance with approved land-use plans, and urged residents to strictly follow the required procedures before constructing buildings.
Mr Kanor cautioned that continued disregard for planning regulations could worsen flooding and create long-term environmental and infrastructural challenges for the district.
He encouraged developers to view the permit process as a safeguard for safety and sustainable development rather than a bureaucratic hurdle, urging cooperation to promote orderly growth and protect lives and property.
