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Mabirizi Plaza on the spot over violating rules
Mabirizi Plaza on Kampala Road was closed by KCCA yesterday but later reopened after its management held talks with KCCA officials. Photo by Abubaker Lubowa
What you need to know:
KCCA accused the building managers of “adding extra floors” without the authority’s approval. Officials at City Hall said Club Ambience submitted plans for a shopping arcade, but the owner turned it into a night club, adding that its parking is in a road reserve
KAMPALA
Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) yesterday closed Mabirizi Plaza on Kampala Road over lack of an occupational permit.
It was later reopened after its management held lengthy talks with KCCA.
The authority issued a directive that all buildings whose owners altered the physical plans be closed to protect the lives of people operating in the structures.
The directive took effect last week when KCCA closed Club Ambience in Bukesa, Rubaga Division. More buildings and shopping malls have been listed for closure in all the divisions of Kampala, according to officials at City Hall.
KCCA accused the building managers of “adding extra floors” without the authority’s approval. Officials at City Hall said Club Ambience submitted plans for a shopping arcade, but the owner turned it into a night club, adding that its parking is in a road reserve.
On September 24, KCCA wrote to Mr Joseph Kiyimba, the manager of Club Ambience, observing that whereas the open space on the floors is fit for occupation, the addition slab on the building contravened the submitted plans.
Mr Kiyimba said he would comply and submit the required structural plans for validation.
KCCA deputy spokesperson Robert Kalumba said: “Buildings under construction and are already renting out floors before their completion will be closed. For any structural change on a building, owners must seek a structural integrity report to ensure occupants’ safety.”
