BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: An unauthorised industrial storage in Kampong Bebatik, Mukim Pengkalan Batu was ordered to cease operations for violating Section 23 (2), Town and Country Planning Act, Chapter 248 for conducting activities without Planning Permission.
The activities took place on a residential land within a residential zone, which is not meant for industrial use. Although the main use was for industrial warehousing, such operations can cause problems such as noise, frequent movement of goods and vehicles, and long working hours disturbing the peace of the neighbourhood.
The use of heavy vehicles for loading also increases traffic, raises safety concerns, and puts pressure on roads not built for such heavy use.
Industrial warehousing can also create environmental issues such as dust, waste and visual impact. Activities such as these should only be conducted in designated industrial areas, which are specifically planned and equipped to support such activities without disrupting residential communities.
Following routine monitoring and inspection, the landowner complied with the Planning Authority’s directive by discontinuing the activities, cleaning up the affected area, and restoring it to its intended residential use.
The operation has since been relocated to an industrial area, adhering to the authorities’ advice, ensuring compliance with planning regulations, and minimising disruptions to the community.
The public is reminded to comply with the planning laws, in particular Section 23 which provides that no person shall carry out the development, subdivision or consolidation of any land or carry out any work in a conservation area without permission from the Planning Authority.
The failure to comply is an offence liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding BND200,000 and in the case of continuing to a further fine not exceeding BND10,000 for every day during which the offence continues after conviction. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
