Spatial planning key to regulating rapid urbanisation, Governor Joseph Ndathi says

Plans are underway to prepare for a county spatial plan aimed at controlling development in Kirinyaga County.

Speaking to the Press at his Kutus town office yesterday, Governor Joseph Ndathi said the county has experienced rapid urbanisation within its major towns of Kutus, Wang'uru, Kianyaga, Kagio, Sagana and Kerugoya without any planning.

"The rapid development witnessed in recent times has been happening without requisite tools to guide such urban growth and development," he said.

The governor said this had led to mushrooming of incompatible land uses and developments, lack of space to provide for critical public utilities like storm water and sewerage among others.

"My government recognises the important role played by urban planning in countering these challenges so as to enhance livelihoods and service delivery to our people," he said.

Mr Ndathi said the Ministry of Land, Housing and Urban Development, will play a key role during preparation of the spatial plan whose implementation will create a more rational organisation of land use.

PRIORITY AREAS

Ndathi said the plan will seek to balance demands for development with the need to protect the environment while achieving the county's social and economic objectives.

"We have also begun preparation of development and zoning plans, with priority being given to Kutus as the county headquarters. Other towns to be planned within this financial year are Wang'uru, Kianyaga, Kagio, Sagana and Kerugoya," he said.

The governor said these towns have been identified as the fastest growing urban centres in need of urgent development control.

"The spatial plan will also avert the many boundary disputes being experienced in our towns, improve county revenue through property rating and ensure controlled urban development," he said.

He said Kutus town, as the county's headquarters offers great opportunity for growth due to its strategic location, accessibility, ample land for planning, zoning and expansion of the town.

GROWTH OPPORTUNITY

Ndathi said existence of the Kirinyaga University College brings with it great investment potentials that can only be tapped into with proper planning.

The governor said the Housing department is developing incentives that will attract private investors into the housing sector to adequately meet the high demand for this service that is expected to triple in the next five years.