The Lagos State Government has assured investors, developers, and home builders that planning approvals will be issued within 10 working days once all necessary requirements are met.

Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, gave the assurance on Wednesday during a briefing on the “State of the Environment” in Lagos.

Olumide said applicants must submit architectural and structural drawings, technical planning reports, engineering reports from structural engineers, and soil test results where necessary. Evidence of tax payment is also mandatory.

“Once you submit all required documents and make payment after assessment, within 10 working days, you will get your approval,” Olumide said, adding that the process was designed to encourage the ease of doing business in the state.

He urged journalists to put the process to the test, assuring that trained officers are available to guide applicants through any outstanding requirements.

On the issue of 176 blacklisted estates, Olumide disclosed that some developers have yet to comply with the 21-day ultimatum issued by the government to correct infractions. He warned that erring developers risk having their properties sealed.

According to him, many of the affected estates were developed on lands earmarked for agricultural or industrial purposes without obtaining the necessary layout approvals.

“We have identified estates that failed to complete the approval process and issued them a 21-working-day grace period for regularisation,” he said.

“Some have responded and are correcting the anomalies, but we will move to the field to enforce compliance on those who have yet to act.”

Olumide stressed that the regulations were in the interest of residents, ensuring estates are properly planned for comfort and safety.