The City of Ekurhuleni remains mum on the effect new developments in Bedfordview will have on the current sewage system.
This after Ward 20 councillor, Clr Jill Humphreys called for balance in the way property development is being handled in the area.
Residents recently expressed concern over the number of structures going up in the suburb, citing traffic congestion as one of the major issues.
Clr Humphreys echoed some of the residents’ sentiments.
She said Bedfordview is currently still a high-end market and generates a reliable and hefty revenue for the metro.
“However, there is enormous pressure from the metro, to encourage developers to squeeze as many units onto a plot of ground as possible. But what is the result?” asked Clr Humphreys.
She said residents who have invested heavily in their homes spend two hours per day taking their children to schools that should be a 10-minute trip.
“These are captains of industry and drivers of the economy. They are also new young families, working 15 hour per day to make the best possible provision for their families who take the opportunity to live in a quiet and clean suburb in dignity and privacy that Bedfordview provides for in many ways. However, as the insidious [new development] notices appear on gates of large old stands. The next thing the bulldozers arrive and so do the multiple units with multiple vehicles,” said Clr Humpreys.
She said of particular concern are Norman Road, Lucas Lane which feed into Van Buuren Road, the only exit point for about 600 housesholds.
Clr Humphreys said there is also congestion along Boeing Road East under the highway bridge.
“Traffic impact studies reveal the excesses but there are no alternatives. The space is all used up,” said Clr Humphreys.
She said sewerage pipes were also a concern.
“Our roads simply cannot expand anywhere to make space for the thousands of extra vehicles. When I question the wisdom of this wanton development process I am told that it’s worse in Sandton. Do we have to settle for worst-case scenario? Is there no choice here? Where is the thought that goes into building on every available millimetre of earth at the cost of our infrastructure? There is meant to be a balance between economic development and infrastructure upgrade and maintenance. It is clear to anyone living in Bedfordview that this ‘balance’ has tipped only one way. The sewerage pumps into our roads and storm-water drains and waterways, the water pipes burst onto the roads causing endless potholes and road degradation. Also, the storm-water drains are never cleared or serviced,” said Clr Humphreys.
The NEWS sent a request for comment to the COE on August 16.
Clarity was requested on the impact new developments would have on the current sewerage system.
Response was not received at the time of going to press.
