Harare Council Tightens Rules For New Fuel Stations, Bans Sites Within 1.5km Of Each Other
Harare City Council has introduced tougher requirements for the construction of new fuel stations following growing public concern over their rapid expansion, particularly in residential areas.
The new measures are intended to strengthen the scrutiny of applications and address safety risks associated with locating fuel stations close to homes.
Also Read: Zimbabwe Government Bans Establishment of Fuel Stations in Residential Areas
New Spacing Rule Introduced
Council acting Director of Public Planning Samuel Nyabezi outlined the changes during a meeting with Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Energy and Power Development at Town House.
According to The Herald, under the new policy, fuel stations will not be allowed to operate within 1.5 kilometres of one another.
Council has also set 2 000 square metres as the minimum size for land on which a new fuel station can be established.
Nyabezi said the requirements are designed to ensure there is sufficient space for the main fuel station and any related facilities.
Public To Get Chance To Object
Council has also changed how residents are notified about proposed fuel station developments.
Applicants will now be required to put up a billboard at the proposed site explaining the nature of the development.
The notice will also inform nearby residents and members of the public that they can submit objections or representations to the local planning authority.
Council will then consider the submissions before making a decision on the application.
Nyabezi said applications are also circulated to relevant stakeholders, allowing technical experts and other interested parties to assess the proposed developments.
Environmental Approval Required
Developers will have to meet environmental and energy-sector requirements before construction can begin.
According to Nyabezi, applicants must submit an environmental impact assessment report or study approved by the Environmental Management Agency.
They must also comply with conditions set by the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority.
Council is further enforcing minimum separation distances between fuel station structures and neighbouring residential buildings.
Where a proposed development borders residential properties, the developer may also be required to construct boundary walls.
Public Safety Concerns Prompt Scrutiny
The tighter rules follow petitions from members of the public over the increasing number of fuel stations in the capital.
Some residents have raised concerns about stations being established in or close to residential neighbourhoods, citing the potential fire and safety risks.
Nyabezi told the committee that council had increased its scrutiny of applications and was consulting more widely before approving new developments.
He said local communities and other stakeholders were now being brought into the process to ensure concerns are considered before projects proceed.
The post Harare Moves To Curb Fuel Station Boom With New 1.5km Spacing Rule appeared first on iHarare News.
