Roads Minister Agbodza Promises Preservation of Osu Heritage in Coastal Road Project

Minister for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, has assured the residents of Osu that the government will prioritize the preservation of historical structures during the construction of the Tema to Winneba coastal road project. Speaking at the 2026 World Architecture Day celebration, the Minister emphasized that there will be no "indiscriminate demolition" of properties in the historic coastal community, addressing growing concerns among locals regarding the impact of the major infrastructure development.

The Minister highlighted a particularly challenging 500-meter stretch within Osu where the road design must balance modern traffic needs with community heritage. Agbodza revealed that while a one-way traffic solution had been considered to alleviate congestion, such a plan would require extensive space and inevitably lead to the destruction of more buildings. To avoid this, the Ministry is collaborating closely with architects and urban planners to find innovative solutions that maintain traffic flow without sacrificing the architectural integrity of the area.

This commitment to preservation aligns with the theme of World Architecture Day, as Agbodza urged professionals in the built environment to assist the government in protecting Ghana's cultural and historical landmarks. By integrating architectural expertise into the engineering process, the government aims to ensure that the coastal road serves as a catalyst for economic growth while respecting the unique character of Osu, one of Accra's oldest and most vibrant neighborhoods.

As the project progresses, the Ministry of Roads and Highways intends to maintain open dialogue with the Osu community to ensure safety and transparency. The Tema to Winneba coastal road remains a critical component of the national infrastructure agenda, designed to improve connectivity across the southern belt. However, the government's current stance suggests a shift toward more sustainable and heritage-conscious development practices in urban infrastructure projects.