The Lagos State Government has said that it would soon arrange a dialogue with developers/owners of distressed buildings on how best to address the redesign and remodelling of such structures.
This was disclosed by the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, in Alausa at the weekend.
Olumide said that the prevalence of distressed buildings in different parts of the state was worrisome and called for the urgent attention of all stakeholders.
He said that the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development as mandated by the Lagos State Urban and Regional Planning and Development Law, 2019, as amended, was willing to extend its responsibility for approving the remodelling of existing buildings to providing technical assistance to developers and owners of distressed buildings, especially on design and remodelling of such buildings.
He added that buildings have their lifespans and should be continuously maintained as the lifespans approach rather than being left to degenerate to the level of distress and eventual collapse, which are inimical to a safe and sustainable environment.
He said that the proposed strategic meeting would be a game changer in the sector by offering technical support, providing viable alternatives to demolition, and combating the menace of distressed buildings in the state.
The Commissioner hinted that the meeting would come up sometime in November 2024.
