A senior town planner believes development must be backed by proper infrastructure if Labasa is to thrive and remain sustainable in the years ahead.
Manasa Tuilau said every developing town must have an airport, a power station capable of meeting growing demand, reliable water and waste infrastructure, and facilities that can sustain long-term growth.
“With competing land needs and users, it’s a challenge to secure enough space for housing, commerce, industrial parks, water treatment, storage, and waste management,” he said.
Mr Tuilau said Labasa was a clear example of a town experiencing rapid development but also facing pressure on available land and resources.
“A lot of developments are emerging in Labasa, but we must plan carefully for future land use if we want to expand properly.”
He said infrastructure must come first, not as an afterthought, if the North is to attract investors and improve the quality of life for its people.
“When investors come, infrastructure must already be in place. Too often, we only think about housing and employment, but not about creating a good quality of life for people.”
As construction, business activity, and population growth continue to rise in Labasa, he said, now was the time to act to plan boldly and ensure infrastructure leads the way in shaping a prosperous North.
