Office report

As anticipated, it has been difficult to make a meaningful contribution in the limited time available though personally I have learnt much about the rapidly evolving physical planning system in Zambia. I have enjoyed working with well qualified and enthusiastic colleagues and experiencing life in Kabwe town from the fading grandeur of Tuskers Hotel to home brew in the settlements.

At Mkushi town where a chief has agreed to the town being expanded by nearly ten times in area I was pleased to be involved in preparing a survey questionnaire for a sample of the new population, photographic records and attending meetings with the Chief.  I also made written comments on recent planning issues in the town and on a previous planning study by the District Council.

In the office I have been involved in research, discussions and reports on the new 2015 Planning Act and associated draft regulations including observations from a European perspective on housing density particularly in relation to the changing policies on settlements. 

With colleagues I have looked at the relationship of Planning with other Acts of Parliament in particular the Public Health act and its associated Building Regulations, and at areas of occasional conflict.  

I have had meetings with Planners in the Kabwe Municipal Council and sought to understand the political structure and outside influences as they affect the physical development of the town which is still endeavouring to recover from its previous mining heritage.

 

my suburb
 
a lake at the former mine
 
Town centre tree (again)