Examining the Impact of Physical Development Practices and Control in the Savelugu Township

In the process of rapid population growth and urbanization, the intensification of various land uses has led to an increase in demand for land. This has therefore resulted in uncontrolled physical development and its associated challenges such as congestion, poor housing, and environmental degradation among others. This study was conducted to examine the impact of physical development practices and control, and how uncontrolled physical development can be effectively managed in the Savelugu Township. It focused on assessing the level of awareness and patronage of development control practices, assessing the physical impact of uncontrolled physical development on the environment, and examining the challenges associated with regulating physical development practices and control. A mixed method approach was employed involving the use of interviews and a survey of 118 developers (home/House owners). The study found that developers (82%) were not aware of physical development practices and control, and only 18% of those who were aware had obtained building permits before commencing development. The study also found that uncontrolled physical development has resulted in improper waste disposal, building on waterways and several other negative impacts on the environment. This was attributed to ignorance on the part of developers, and the bureaucratic and expensive nature of the permit application and acquisition processes. The study recommends the sensitization of the public particularly developers by the assembly to enable them to understand and appreciate the relevance of development control. Rules and regulations relating to permits must be enforced to reduce the level of non-compliance as observed in the quality of the built environment.