Tema, Oct. 27, GNA - The Deputy Minister for Works and Housing, Dr Charles Prempong Yeboah, on Wednesday cut the sod to mark the commencement of work on a 21.7-billion cedi two-storey office complex for the Tema Development Corporation (TDC). The TDC, then known as the Tema Corporation relocated from the old Marine Police building at the old Airport Residential Area to its present location at the centre of the town, which was constructed in 1954 as temporary offices.

The office, which has since housed many other institutions and departments are spread apart, thus hampering free flow of work hence the need for a modern office complex which is expected to be completed in 18 months.

In a short address, the Minister expressed his satisfaction with the achievements of the corporation so far, including its development of sites and Services on the housing delivery sector.

He pledged his Ministry's support for the project and entreated the contractor to ensure that it is completed in the stipulated time as well as other projects of the corporation in the municipality. The Board Chairman of the Corporation, Nana Prah Agyensaim VI, announced that the board has developed a policy framework to undertake policies in line with that of the government. He said plans are advanced to develop community 25 and sites for the car dealers in Tema.

He said in line with its social responsibilities, the corporation has completed the construction of two staff bungalows yet to be handed over to the Police.

Nana Agyensaim called on all to support the TDC to develop Tema into a tourist attraction.

In a welcoming address, Ms. Elizabeth Mansah Banson, Managing Director of the TDC explained that the scattering of the corporation's present offices was not conducive for work.

She said, "the need for a new head office has long been overdue therefore, in consultation with the board members we came up with the project which would be completed in 18 months."

Ms Banson indicated that the remaining 13- acre land would be available for re-development by the TDC to befit modern standards. Among those present was Nii Adjei Kraku II, chief of Tema.