The UT Administration has turned down traders’ request to allow box-type structures to existing commercial establishments in the Union Territory of Chandigarh.
The Board of Inquiry and Hearing constituted to give recommendations on objections on UT Master Plan, had received a large number of representations regarding the change in architectural controls and the demand for box type structure in SCOs (Shop cum office) in Phase-I sectors, which were converted from SCFs (Shop cum flat).
The Board had also undertook visit to some commercial centres in various sectors and noted that large scale violations in the form of additional coverage and alterations to façade have been made by the SCO/SCF owners.“These violations have resulted in deterioration in the architectural character of the city and have made these commercial centres prone to fire hazards also,” stated the report of the Board.Giving recommendations on the issue, the UT Administration has rejected the demand to allow box type structures. It stated that box type structures shall not be allowed to existing commercial establishments of the first phase sectors.
On the issue, the Board of Inquiry and Hearing said that holistic review of architectural controls shall be undertaken as recommended by the Expert Heritage Committee to address modern day requirements .The overall architectural character shall be maintained and shall be subject to the approval of the Chandigarh Heritage Conservation Committee.