Blitz on backyard industries launched

MASVINGO City Council has embarked on a blitz targeting backyard industries such as illegal garages, overnight car parking premises and tuck-shops. The campaign will see those found operating illegally being fined and illegal structures being destroyed.

Masvingo Mayor Councillor Hubert Fidze said the unregistered businesses were depriving council of potential revenue as they do not remit what is due to the local authority.

"We have started cracking down on all illegal garages, illegal tuck shops and those running illegal overnight vehicle parking. Some of these businesses operate within residential premises and we're saying that should stop. We're only following by-laws which forbid such illegal activities and those caught will be fined accordingly," said Clr Fidze

He said while they support local businesspeople, lawlessness was not the best way of doing business. The mayor said residential areas were not created for business operations.

"We urge all those interested to be in business to approach council for space to operate legally not to use their backyards. Council should realise revenue through collecting rentals and rates. When one decides to do business on undesignated space, he or she will be depriving us of such revenue. Such activities will also violate the Environmental Management Act and the Public Health Act as premises don't meet some environmental standards as well as health standards," said Clr Fidze.

He warned those who erect illegal structures that their days were numbered. Clr Fidze said all the buildings erected on undesignated sites violate the council's by-laws and their owners should destroy them before the local authority comes after them.