The Housing and Water Ministry, through the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), has taken firm action against illegal occupation of public reserves, serving a Notice of Contravention to a business found encroaching on road and drainage reserves along the Mandela – Eccles four-lane highway.
According to the Ministry, the business owners, either personally or through agents, unlawfully concreted areas adjacent to the western lane of the highway, in violation of the Town and Country Planning Act, Chapter 20:01. The CH&PA has also begun dismantling the unauthorised structures.

The Notice requires the owners to “immediately remove all encumbrances”, including poured concrete, construction materials, machinery, and equipment, from the reserves. It further stipulates that all construction and operational activities must remain “within the bounds of the said property” and must not obstruct the free flow of traffic along the highway.
The business, which received approval for its development plan in December 2023, was authorised to access the property from an internal road west of the site – not from the highway, as stated in the approved plans.
The Ministry said the move reflects its commitment to enforcing planning laws and ensuring public infrastructure remains accessible and safe. Additionally, it said that it also serves as a warning to other businesses and property owners against similar violations.
“Illegal encroachments on public reserves and infrastructure will not be tolerated, and legal action will be taken to ensure compliance,” the Ministry emphasised, noting that safeguarding roadways and drainage systems is essential to maintaining order, safety, and proper development for all citizens.