Byo councillors clash over CBD’s mushrooming sublet shops
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Bulawayo councillors have expressed divided opinions regarding the increase in partitioned and sublet shops within the Central Business District (CBD).
Some councilors view these sublet shops as substandard and unsightly, contributing to a disorganised appearance in the CBD. Others, however, argue that they provide a lucrative income-generating opportunity for the council.
Proportional Representation councillor Melissa Mabeza highlighted that while these lettable shops are creating employment for many households in the city, there is a need to balance them with the development of state-of-the-art malls to maintain the city’s “dignity.”
Cllr Mabeza noted that larger shops are now closing down due to competition from lettable shops, which is negatively affecting the overall appearance of the city.
Cllr Khalazani Ndlovu echoed these concerns, suggesting that the town planning department should allocate specific locations for these shops rather than allowing them to proliferate indiscriminately across the city.
“Of course, people are making a living from these shops, but why are they mushrooming everywhere? We are not saying they should be banned completely, but we are suggesting that they be located in specific areas of the CBD, perhaps on its outskirts or in designated zones,” she said.
“We understand that this concept originated from a foreign country, but did those who introduced the idea fully grasp its principles, or did they adopt it at face value? It is now contributing to the cluttered appearance of our city.”
Cllr Aleck Ndlovu defended the concept of lettable shops, emphasizing that they provide a safety net for unemployed individuals who have been affected by business closures.
“We must recognize that many major businesses have shut down. These lettable shops offer relief to those who lost their jobs in those industries. They don’t have the capital for large investments but can afford to rent these smaller spaces,” he said.
Cllr Donaldson Mabuto added that large businesses closing down are often the ones applying for lettable shops, with some even improving infrastructure in the process.
He urged the council to capitalize on this opportunity by collecting revenue from shop owners.
“Those seeking permits for these lettable shops are often the building owners themselves. For instance, when Edgars closes and decides to let out its buildings, these smaller shops create jobs and contribute to infrastructural development,” Cllr Mabuto said.
“Our priority should be ensuring that these shops are built with quality materials to make them appealing. We also need to monitor the shop owners to ensure they are properly licensed. By doing so, the city council can generate revenue to improve its coffers and enhance service delivery.”
City Mayor, Cllr David Coltart, acknowledged the differing opinions on lettable shops but stressed the importance of understanding the broader macroeconomic context in which the city operates.
“The issue lies in the macroeconomic environment we work within. While this matter is deeply concerning to many of us, we should explore measures that support larger traditional businesses while not stifling those enabling smaller operators to thrive,” he said.