The District Chief Executive of Shai-Osudoku District Assembly, Daniel Akuffo, says although it is the objective of any assembly to see developmental projects within its area, it will not condone the practices of some developers constructing projects without permits.

He informed that every district has a planning scheme as such, it’s advisable to even approach the Assembly with your building proposal before construction to ascertain whether the location of a project will serve the purpose, won’t have any adverse effect on the environment and most importantly align with the planning scheme of the assembly.

Mr Akuffo gave the caution in an interview with the media when he confirmed that his outfit has stopped a Chinese firm from constructing a new cement factory along the Shai Hills enclave.

The people he said were doing so without a permit. Some tools and equipment of the contractors were seized as well.

The project, according to sources, is a few months away from completion, but it lacks the requisite permit from the District Assembly and the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) to operate in the enclave which houses tomato and powdered soap factories.

Daniel Akuffo said the Assembly was aware the investor has some investments in the district and a proposal to set up a cement factory.

"They have not submitted any drawings to the Assembly because we have a special planning committee where we have the EPA and some other Agencies and departments serving on the committee who will sit and analyze on where it is sited, its impact (Environmental Impact Assessment) so that when you are permitted we know that sitting it will not create any problem.

"I always say that as a developing district, we appreciate having businesses spring up in the District to boost the local economy, but the right thing needs to be done to ensure Shai-Osudoku District is well planned devoid of any negative environmental impact".

Mr Akuffo seized the opportunity to advise investors that even before one purchases land, they should inform the Assembly on the kind of project, and per the planning scheme, the person will be advised on whether the location will serve the purpose.

“There are a lot of business prospects here at Shai-Osudoku District; areas reserved for Estate developing, filling stations, areas for farming/Agriculture and areas for residential purpose.

"We are here to plan the District well and beautifully, and I hope that someday we will have beautiful places here just like Trasacco Estate", he touted.