Ministry of Infrastructure Development Applauds Upcoming Passage of National Building Standard Bill

The Architecture and Building Management Services Division (ABMSD) of the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) is excited to announce the anticipated passage of the National Building Standard Bill later this year. This legislative milestone is set to transform the landscape of the country’s construction sector.

Philip Baura, Director of ABMSD, shared his optimism regarding the bill’s potential impact. “The passage of this act will significantly bolster our division’s capacity to address the long-standing challenges faced by the construction industry,” he stated.

Mr. Baura highlighted the legislation’s importance in enhancing safety standards across government buildings and private residences.

“It will also establish guidelines for construction on provincial lands and commercial and privately owned properties that serve public interests.

“This act empowers us to effectively regulate the construction industry, equipping us with the necessary tools to enforce compliance,” he explained.

The proposed legislation introduces minimum standards carefully tailored to the local context, prioritizing safety and quality. Following its approval, a one-year transition period will be implemented, allowing ABMSD the opportunity to identify and rectify any ambiguities within the law.

“Our long-term vision is for this act to lay the groundwork for establishing a dedicated building authority that will govern the construction industry,” Mr Baura noted.

In addition, the bill advocates for a collaborative framework involving the government, the Honiara City Council’s planning division, the provincial government, the Building and Construction Working Group under the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI), the national planning board, and other key stakeholders. This collaboration is aimed at promoting a cohesive approach to construction regulation.

Upon the bill’s passage, ABMSD plans to deploy building inspectors to provincial centers nationwide, ensuring robust oversight of ongoing construction activities.

The legislation will also enhance the capabilities of the MID’s construction material laboratory, ensuring that all local and international construction projects meet the minimum certification standards before any building structures commence.

Furthermore, Director Baura highlighted his division’s ongoing work to present the drainage bill for parliamentary proceedings in the near future.

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele reaffirmed last week that the National Building Standard Bill will be tabled in Parliament this year, assuring SICCI members of the government’s commitment to advancing the country’s construction standards.

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-MID Press Release