The Suva and Nasinu municipal councils, the country’s two largest municipalities, admit they are short of manpower in town planning.

This was highlighted to FBC News during World Urban Planning Day in Suva this morning.

They both recognize the crucial role of urban planners in the expansion of municipalities and future developments.

They say some progress has been made to improve human resources in this area, as population growth continues to occur, requiring more planners.

Nasinu Municipal Council executive chairman Felix Magnus says Nasinu is poised for expansion and the role of planners is important.

“Actually, we have three at the moment and we will be posting two more positions. We just recently installed Manager Town and Planning Manager, and then we’ll announce two more to help us. We also expect the city to grow, which is why we need experienced and competent people in this field, urban planning.

Tevita Boseiwaqa, chair of the SCC Special Administrators, says they currently only have two planners, but with new developments underway, demand is increasing.

“Because there is a need, particularly in the provision of services, approvals, etc., we have recruited two others. We have also assigned FNU interns to assist us and are advertising urgently needed positions to ensure service delivery.

Meanwhile, Local Government Minister Maciu Nalumisa highlights the importance of ensuring designs are not only modern but also resilient.

“Our planning needs to be structured and designed so that when we propose developments, they are environmentally friendly and provide a sustainable future for the people who are going to reside and live in these towns.”

Nalumisa also revealed that a team from the ministry is currently engaged in developing master plans for Viti Levu and Vanua Levu which will establish the framework for coherent and coordinated growth between the towns.

He says the plan aims to achieve a defined vision for Fiji’s future, where public infrastructure is aligned.