Minister for Roads and Highways, Kwame Agbodza, has assured residents and property owners in Osu that the government will not indiscriminately demolish buildings to facilitate the proposed Tema-Winneba coastal road project. He made this statement at the 2026 World Architecture Day celebration organised by the Ghana Institute of Architects. The celebration's theme was "Housing is a Human Right. Build It." Agbodza emphasized that the government is working with architects and professionals to find a solution that improves traffic flow while preserving historically significant buildings and structures.
Agbodza stated that the government is mindful of the impact major road projects can have on existing communities. He noted that roads should not be viewed merely as infrastructure connecting two points but as projects that directly affect communities, livelihoods, and heritage. According to the Minister, the government's long-standing plan to construct a coastal road from Tema to Winneba already has an established alignment. However, a 500-metre stretch around Osu remains a challenge due to concerns about potential building demolitions.
The Minister explained that the major challenge is this 500-metre stretch around Osu, where concerns have been raised about the potential demolition of buildings. He noted that the government has engaged professionals, including architect Deban, to help find an appropriate solution. Agbodza stated that he has taken the concerns raised by the public seriously and is committed to finding a balance between improving transportation and protecting Osu's heritage.
Agbodza dismissed suggestions that the government could simply introduce a one-way traffic system through Osu to avoid demolishing buildings. He explained that such an arrangement would still require adequate road space for vehicles and pedestrians, potentially resulting in even greater disruption. According to the Minister, if a one-way system were to be implemented, it would need to be at least 6-7 meters wide, causing more damage and demolition than the current 500-meter stretch.
The Minister acknowledged concerns over the preservation of Osu's historical character but stressed that traffic management and the protection of important buildings must also be considered in determining the best solution. He assured residents that the project would not involve the indiscriminate destruction of buildings. Agbodza stated that Architect Deban and others are helping the government find the best possible solution to balance both cases.
Agbodza emphasized that the government is sensitive to the concerns of Osu residents and is working to find a solution that balances development with heritage preservation. He noted that the government is not just focused on building roads but also on the impact on communities, livelihoods, and heritage. The Minister expressed his commitment to ensuring that the coastal road project is implemented in a way that respects the historical significance of Osu.
The proposed Tema-Winneba coastal road project aims to improve traffic flow and connectivity in the region. However, the project has raised concerns among Osu residents about the potential demolition of historically significant buildings and structures. The government's assurance to protect these buildings and find a balanced solution has helped alleviate some of these concerns. The project is expected to move forward with the government's commitment to responsible and sustainable development.
Key points
- The government has assured Osu residents that it will not indiscriminately demolish buildings during the proposed Tema-Winneba coastal road project.
- A 500-metre stretch around Osu remains a challenge due to concerns about potential building demolitions.
- The government is working with architects and professionals to find a solution that balances development with heritage preservation.
