An unauthorised glass and aluminium fabrication workshop operating in Kampong Kilanas, Mukim Kilanas has been ordered by the Planning Authority to cease operations and remove unauthorised structures after it was found to be in breach of Section 23(2) of the Town and Country Planning Act (Chapter 248).
The operator had been carrying out industrial fabrication activities and erecting structures for the manufacture of aluminium windows and doors without first obtaining Planning Permission from the Planning Authority.
Investigations found that the workshop was operating within an area zoned for residential use, where industrial activities are not permitted. The premises were being used for the cutting, fabrication, assembly and storage of aluminium frames, glass panels, windows, doors and related materials and equipment.
The Planning Authority said such activities were incompatible with the surrounding residential environment due to noise generated by fabrication works, the movement of commercial vehicles, the storage of industrial materials and the potential safety risks posed to neighbouring properties. Several structures associated with the workshop had also been erected without planning approval.
Following routine monitoring and enforcement inspections by the Department of Town and Country Planning, the landowner complied with the enforcement notice by ceasing all fabrication activities, demolishing the unauthorised structures and restoring the site to a clean and orderly condition.
The public is reminded that Planning Permission must be obtained before carrying out any development, including the construction of buildings or structures and the commencement of land use or business activities requiring planning approval under Section 23 of the Town and Country Planning Act.
Any person who contravenes the Act commits an offence and is liable, upon conviction, to a fine of up to BND200,000, and for continuing offences, a further fine of up to BND10,000 for each day the offence continues after conviction.
Members of the public are encouraged to seek planning advice before commencing any development or business activity to ensure compliance with planning laws. Complaints regarding unauthorised developments or land use activities may be made to the Department of Town and Country Planning hotline at 8200 222.