No new buildings in Port Vila CBD until Building Code is updated

March 24, 2025 10:03 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

By Ezra Toara.

The demolition of buildings in Port Vila’s Central Business District (CBD) is currently underway, but future development plans for these areas remain uncertain. Before any new construction can take place, the government must review and update the National Building Code to ensure that its quality and safety meet modern standards.

Minister of Internal Affairs Andrew Solomon Napuat confirmed that officials from the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MOIA) and the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities (MIPU) are actively working on finalising the Building Code.

“We aim to complete the revised Building Code by April 2025, after which it will need to be legalised,” Napuat stated.

“Strong enforcement of the Building Code is essential to its success. This will improve the quality and safety of our buildings and create employment opportunities.”

Napuat further mentioned that this year presents a chance to redesign Port Vila’s CBD. The Port Vila City Council (PVCC) has now been granted the legal mandate to oversee urban planning and development within the city.

“As part of the redesign, there will be proposals for the types of buildings we want in the CBD,” Napuat said.

The ongoing efforts to update the Building Code and redesign Port Vila’s urban landscape aim to improve structural integrity, enhance city planning, and create a more sustainable and modern capital.