Islamabad: The federal commission formed for approving the changes proposed to the Islamabad master plan has rejected the draft submitted by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) for increasing the number of storeys allowed in markazes and small markets, a news source reported. The CDA had proposed several changes to the bylaws concerning the design of commercial plazas last week.
The members of the commission pointed out that they wanted to develop a comprehensive master plan for the capital city; hence they were unable to allow an increase in the number of permitted storeys prior to conducting suitable feasibility studies.
Under the existing bylaws, a ‘ground plus one floor’ arrangement is allowed for class three shopping centres (sector markets, also known as the markazes). In these venues, the ground floor is meant to serve as a commercial space, while the first floor is to be used for residential purposes.
The CDA had previously approved new by-laws for construction of high-rise buildings in Blue Area, Islamabad Expressway, Kashmir Highway and all other roads featuring a 300ft right-of-way (ROW).
