KMA gives shop owners 14 days to remove unauthorized frontage canopies

The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) has given owners and occupiers of shops in the metropolis 14 days to remove unauthorized canopies, awnings, sheds and other structures erected at the frontage of their premises.

The Assembly said the structures obstruct pedestrian movement, encroach on public spaces and road reserves, and could impede emergency access.

In a statement issued on Monday, August 10, the assembly cautioned that owners and occupiers who fail to comply within the stipulated period will have their structures removed by the Assembly at their own cost and could face prosecution.

“These unauthorized structures obstruct pedestrian movement, encroach on public spaces and road reserves, impede emergency access, create environmental and safety hazards, and detract the orderly development and appearance of the Metropolis,” the KMA said.

It said failure to comply would compel the Assembly to remove the offending structures without further notice.

The KMA further cautioned that offenders may be liable to prosecution under applicable laws and regulations governing physical planning and development control.

“The cost of removal shall be borne by the owners or occupiers, and offenders may also be liable to prosecution in accordance with the applicable laws and regulations governing physical planning and development control,” it stated.

The Assembly urged affected persons to cooperate with authorities to ensure a safe, accessible, clean and orderly urban environment.