Mixed reaction to mega Leeuwpoort development

All eyes are on the controversial mega housing project, as the local government pushes ahead with its plans to deliver the thousands of homes it had promised to people within the city.

The sites for the massive housing project, known as Leeuwpoort Development, include the vacant pieces of land in Reiger Park (Ext 19), Parkdene (Ext Seven), Sunward Park and part of Windmill Park.

Listen to Ward  Clr Marius de Vos’ view on the development:

Tthe proposed project has already attracted an adverse reaction from some concerned property owners in Parkdene and Sunward Park.

Property owners in the two areas are rallying against additional low-cost family homes and commercial properties to be built in their neighbourhoods.

Those who object to it argue that it is most likely to lead to increased crime rates and overpopulation, devalue existing properties, bring people who have the lowest social status to their areas, put pressure on existing utility networks and put great strain on the existing infrastructure and public facilities, such as hospitals, clinics, schools and libraries, as well as roads.

Other reasons for the objection are the high number of stands to be developed, while others argue that the development is likely to deteriorate into a slum and as a result have a negative impact on the wildlife in the nearby streams and dams.

Meanwhile, those who are for the proposal say the development will help address the extensive housing backlog and put an end to the mushrooming of informal settlements in the city.

Environmental consultants have already begun carrying out the scoping process for the Leeuwpoort Development project in Reiger Park, Cinderella, Sunward Park and Windmill Park.

The scoping process is said to be an opportunity for stakeholders to register as Interested and Affected Parties (I&AP), and to make their concerns known.

The report will then be considered when carrying out the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).

Bokamoso Environmental Consultants’ Juanita du Plessis confirmed that her company was assigned to carry out the scoping process.

She added that they are in the final stage of the scoping process report – which consists of the issues raised by the I&APs.

The final scoping report and a plan of study for the EIA will then be submitted to the Competent Authority for consideration.

If it is approved, Bokamoso will commence with the EIA process.

The Advertiser tried in vain to get information on the project from the Ekurhuleni metro. -@FanieFLK

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