Dear Editor,
The landscape of Guyana is changing rapidly, and it appears that established rules and by-laws governing housing and community development are increasingly being flouted, with little or no visible punitive action taken by the relevant authorities. Numerous housing schemes developed by the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA) have not been formally transferred to their respective local democratic organs, resulting in weak oversight and regulatory enforcement within these communities.
Central to this challenge is the apparent absence of effective zoning enforcement. Zoning is a critical planning tool that ensures the orderly use of land, protects residential communities from incompatible commercial and industrial activities, and safeguards public health, safety, and environmental standards. Since the return of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPPc) to office in 2020, the Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, publicly committed to strengthening zoning regulations and restoring order to housing schemes.
However, the current realities on the ground suggest that zoning enforcement is no longer treated as a priority, thereby creating a “free-for-all” environment in which virtually any activity is permitted, regardless of its impact on surrounding residents.
While there are clearly articulated policies and guidelines set by the CHPA to govern both residential housing and commercial development, it is evident that Guyana no longer maintains clearly defined residential areas where citizens can reasonably expect peace, stability, and security. Residential communities are increasingly being encroached upon by commercial and quasi-industrial activities. In several areas, lands are being used to park large fuel tanker trucks, heavy-duty vehicles, and stockpiles of construction materials. In my view, these practices constitute serious environmental, safety, and public health hazards and fundamentally erode the quality of life within these communities.
Several days ago, I reached out to the Minister Collin Croal to ascertain whether he is aware of the ongoing developments within the Eccles community, particularly the construction of fences well above the legally mandated height. I also sought clarification on whether CHPA officers are actively monitoring and enforcing compliance within the housing scheme, as required by existing regulations.
I recall with pride the Georgetown of my youth, particularly growing up in the quiet community of Bourda. At that time, parapets were well maintained, alleyways were clean, buildings were properly cared for, and there was an absence of high-rise structures that disrupted the character of the neighbourhood. Even when commercial enterprises such as Bakewell Bakery were first established, they did so without the construction of five- or seven-storey buildings. The transformation of areas such as Albert and North Road occurred in a manner that enhanced the urban landscape without encroaching upon or diminishing the rights of neighbouring property owners.
As a concerned citizen whose only expectation is that the laws and regulations of this country be upheld, I find it necessary to place the following questions in the public domain. It is my hope that the Minister Croal and his team at the CHPA will provide clear and timely responses:
Has there been a change in the policies governing zoning and the operation of housing schemes?
If so, when was this policy change made, and was it formally communicated to the public?
What enforcement mechanisms are currently in place to address recalcitrant individuals who are in clear violation of zoning regulations and housing by-laws?
I look forward to hearing or reading responses to the issues raised above, in the interest of transparency, accountability, and the orderly and sustainable development of our communities.