TMA closes 100-tonne cold store at Tema Fishing Harbour
The Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA) has ordered the immediate closure of a 100-tonne capacity cold store at the Tema Fishing Harbour for operating without the necessary building permits.
The decision was taken on January 12, 2026, during a routine inspection at the harbour.
The facility reportedly failed to present the required permits, despite receiving three earlier warnings from the Assembly to regularise its operations.
The Metropolitan Chief Executive (MCE) of Tema, Ebi Bright, who led the enforcement exercise, explained that the action highlighted the Assembly’s commitment to orderly urban development, regulatory compliance, and effective oversight of business operations within the Tema Metropolis.
She said the closure formed part of TMA’s ongoing drive to enforce development control regulations and ensure compliance with approved planning standards across the metropolis.
Ms Bright emphasised that all developers were mandated to obtain approval from the Assembly before undertaking any form of construction or development.
She cautioned that failure to comply with planning and building regulations would be met with strict enforcement measures.
The closure of the cold store, the TMA boss said, was intended to serve as a deterrent to other developers who might be operating without proper authorisation.
She further stated that the Assembly maintained that adherence to planning regulations was crucial for sustainable urban development and the protection of public infrastructure.
The TMA further reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with communities, businesses and stakeholders to promote compliance through education, engagement and enforcement.
The MCE encouraged business operators to take advantage of the Assembly’s planning and permitting processes, stressing that early engagement with the appropriate departments would help avoid disruptions and financial losses.
She assured residents and investors that the Assembly’s actions were guided by the need to maintain order, safety and legality in all development activities.
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