The Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA) has taken charge of development in the Tema Metropolis, asserting its exclusive mandate as the planning and development authority. According to Madam Ebi Bright, the Tema Metropolitan Chief Executive (MCE), all physical developments within the city must comply with the assembly's planning and permitting processes.
TMA's Planning Authority Clarified
Madam Bright explained that the clarification had become necessary amid the ongoing disagreement between the TMA and the TDC Company Limited over an infilling project at Community One Site Three. The assembly had received petitions over developments in the communities, including the felling of about 50 trees, demolition of existing structures, appropriation of playgrounds and green belts, and obstruction of access. The TMA subsequently visited the area and verified that some of the activities were taking place.
Madam Bright emphasized that the assembly's role was to examine proposed developments, engage affected residents and their elected representatives, consider objections, and, where necessary, lead processes for rezoning and obtaining the required approvals before development could proceed. She noted that the Community One Site Three project had not followed this sequence, prompting the Assembly to ask the developers to stop work to allow for engagement and the appropriate statutory processes.
TMA's Mandate and TDC's Role
Madam Bright clarified that TDC's conversion into a private limited liability company in 2017 had further distinguished its property management role from the regulatory functions of the assembly. She explained that TDC could collect ground rent, manage its properties, and administer leases, but could not issue building permits, undertake demolitions, rezone public spaces, or issue enforcement notices. The MCE stressed that the issue was about ensuring that every institution operating in Tema remained within its lawful mandate.
According to Madam Bright, TDC's legitimate responsibilities in land ownership, property management, and lease administration did not confer planning and regulatory authority on the company. She noted that TDC could develop its property but was required to obtain the necessary permits from the TMA before undertaking physical development. The MCE stated, "TMA is the planning and development authority for the city."
TMA's Efforts to Resolve the Dispute
Madam Bright also addressed complaints from residents who were allegedly receiving conflicting notices from TMA and TDC. She cautioned against such practices, saying the assembly would continue to enforce its mandate while engaging relevant institutions to resolve the dispute. The MCE emphasized that the assembly respected TDC's legitimate commercial and property management functions but would not compromise on its regulatory role.
The situation has sparked debate among residents and stakeholders in the Tema Metropolis, with some questioning the TMA's authority and others supporting the assembly's efforts to assert its mandate. As the dispute continues, the TMA remains committed to enforcing its planning and development authority, ensuring that all physical developments in the city comply with the assembly's regulations. The outcome of this situation will likely have far-reaching implications for the development of the Tema Metropolis and the role of local assemblies in Ghana's planning and development process.
Source: Joy Online
