All illegal structures in Kisumu to be demolished

KISUMU: The county government has warned that all structures constructed without following the laid-down regulations will be brought down.

County Executive for Physical Planning Vincent K'Odera said many developers have been putting up residential houses, especially flats, without adhering to the rules on construction of such buildings.

 K'Odera warned developers and contractors who flout county and national governments construction rules that they will be prosecuted.

He cited Lolwe, Migosi and Polyview as some of the estates where there is lack of proper planning.

"The planning of these estates is very poor.The developers have not given an allowance for landscaping space, impervious surface, traffic lanes and parking," said K'Odera.

He added: "There should be proper pathways for fire engines in the event that a fire breaks out," said K'Odera, and attributed the disorder to lack of accountability by the town's previous administrations.

RENT ARREARS

He said in Lolwe Estate for example, some houses have been built just few metres from the railway line, yet all structures should be located at least 20m away from the railway.

Recently, the official approved the Integrated Strategic Urban Development Plan, setting the stage for an overhaul of the city's physical planning.

"Any building that will be found to be substandard will be brought down too," said K'Odera, who also sounded a warning to tenants in county houses, whose leases have expired.

He said the county government is currently carrying an audit of all leases before they are renewed.

"We will require all tenants to have all their receipts of payment up to date lest they face eviction from county houses," he said.

He added that all illegal structures or extensions built next to county houses will also be brought down.