The neglected state of buildings in parts of the Capital City has prompted a review of existing laws to determine if they can be upgraded.
Housing and Local Government Minister Maciu Nalumisa says aging and poorly maintained buildings in the city have become an eyesore and there is an urgent need to upgrade them. However, any move in such a direction must be made within the law.
Responding to a question on whether the ministry plans to encourage other building owners to upgrade their properties following the refurbishment of the Yatu Lau Arcade, the minister confirmed the matter is being looked at.
“When you enter from the other side of the city, you come to see some really old buildings, and they’re an eyesore,” he said.
He said the Government must first examine whether the current legislation allowed for intervention, and that any action must be done according to the law.
Mr Nalumisa said the issue also involved property owners living overseas who had not upgraded or maintained their properties.
He confirmed instructing the municipal council to review the matter and explore possible options to address buildings that have remained in poor condition for a long time.
“We need to first find out how best to do something about it,” Mr Nalumisa said.
“If it is within the law, then we need to come up with something.”
