To improve transparency in permit procedures, Planner Nyarko suggested that MMDAs should publish permit requirements and procedures online, on public notice boards, and establish public data rooms for essay accessibility.
She also recommended the provision of clear guidelines and checklists for permit applications to the public.
In an interview with the media at Odumase, near Sunyani, she emphasized that improving the visibility and clarity of permit processes was essential for building public trust, ensuring accountability, and addressing community needs.
Public involvement
According to Planner Nyarko, Sections 174 to 176 of the Land Use and Spatial Planning Act (Act 925 of 2016) mandate that MMDAs actively involve the public in planning processes.
She said the assemblies should create transparent and efficient permit processing systems, offer public training and information about the permit procedures, and ensure that the public has easy access to spatial planning information.
According to her, decisions on permit applications should be communicated to them in a timely manner while the Technical Sub-committee at the Assemblies should review the permit fees as part of the development application review.
Planner Nyarko believes these measures would not only bring transparency and accountability to planning, but also encourage citizen participation and engagement in national development and decision-making processes.
These efforts would further build trust and credibility with the community, support developments that meet community needs and desires, and advance social justice and equity.
Planner Nyarko further recommended that MMDAs display spatial plans in public areas such as community centers, libraries, and digital platforms like websites and social media to share plans and updates.
Community events
She disclosed that MMDAs should host community events and meetings to present plans, collect feedback, and provide regular updates on planning processes as a means of prioritizing transparency in development and planning permit processes.
In this regard, Planner Nyarko said MMDAs should avoid the use of technical jargons and offer straightforward explanations of the plans to all individuals, particularly those living with disabilities and those facing language barriers.
She is optimistic that these measures will help reduce corruption, ensure accountability, and foster greater public involvement in the planning process.
