Spatial planning for development
I have followed with keen interest the role Daily Graphic has been playing in organising Round-Table discussions on critical national issues.
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One area which has received little attention has been Land Use and Spatial Planning.
Quite recently, the Daily Graphic raised awareness about how the Graphic Road was deteriorating and losing its quality and importance.
Take a look at the Kwame Nkrumah Avenue from what used to be Farisco traffic lights down to the Liberty House Ghana Commercial Bank, and the haphazard manner human and vehicular traffic conflict with each other!
The seasonal flooding in major communities as a result of the flagrant abuse of planning regulations, is also challenging.
It is my plea that once in a while, the spotlight is thrown on this significant area of national development, which has received little attention over the years.
In fact, planning issues come up (the negative aspects though) for discussion only when avoidable disasters, such as, floods, fires or buildings collapse occur.
If it is possible, it is my wish that a discussion on this subject be highlighted and made a half-yearly national programme; spearheaded by our esteemed Daily Graphic.
Mike Mensah,
Development Planner/ Fellow of the Ghana Institute of Planners (FGIP).
E-mail: [email protected]