Parliament passes Land Use and Spatial Planning Bill 2016 Parliament has passed the Land Use and Spatial Planning Bill 2016. The Bill revises and consolidates the laws on land use and spatial planning, provides for sustainable development of land and human settlements. It also mandates government to establish a Land Use and Spatial Planning Authority. Presenting the report of the Committee on Environment, Science and Technology prior to the passage of the Bill the Chairman of the Committee, Simon Edem Asimah said the Act will ensure a more sustainable and well-functioning land administration system in the country. According to the Chairman, the Land Use and Spatial Planning Act will provide for sustainable development of land through a decentralized planning system, ensure judicious use of land in order to improve quality of life, promote health and safety across the country. The law when assented to by the President will give clear direction to shorten the process of approving permit application and thereby increase the willingness of prospective developers to apply for building permit prior to construction. GBC