The Central Housing and Planning Authority said it was satisfied with Grove and Diamond residents’ response to the first consultation held with them on Saturday as efforts move apace to draft a development plan for the areas.
According to a Government Information Agency (GINA) press release the meeting aimed at garnering feedback and suggestions from residents regarding concerns and ideas for future development of their communities.
The exercise builds upon earlier planning studies of the East Bank Corridor which included business and residential surveys and the documentation of a community profile.
Development Planner Fayola Azore said the consultation allowed it to harness community participation in planning for the areas. She noted that residents expressed several concerns including the need for better road and drainage infrastructure, a local market and recreational facilities. They also suggested solutions to some problems.
Meanwhile, Planning Intern Vidya John said the consultation was chosen as it is more flexible than a community meeting and allowed residents to stop by at their convenience to interact with staff individually about their needs, ideas and long-term vision for their community.
According to GINA the development plan stemmed from the rapid growth of the areas in recent years and the need to manage it effectively in anticipation of continued growth.
The consultation was held at the Samatta Point Nursery School.
