Motala Heights construction puzzles residents
PR councillor, Marlaine Nair said it is unlikely that a truck stop will be constructed on the site.
RUMOURS of a truck stop being built in Naidoo Road, Motala Heights has the community up in arms as the construction is on a road used by school children, some as young as five years old.
The excavation taking place in that area has become a concern for everyone, not only the school.
Member of the newly formed Motala Heights CPF, Ashley Govender, said their concern is that this work is done using heavy vehicles and starts early, before children begin school.
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The construction site is a dangerous place for children to be walking past to and from school and they fear one of the trucks will end up inadvertently reversing into a small child.
Govender said another grievance the community has is that they are not sure what is being built. They would appreciate it if someone could speak to them and explain what is happening.
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“We have heard rumours that houses are going to be built. The trucks which bring in building materials drop sand all over our streets and the dust is hazardous for the community and the children who walk along that site to and from school.”
He said another problem they are experiencing is the power breaks occurring when workers strike electric wires.
“Some households have experienced three electricity cut-offs in a space of two weeks,” added Govender.
DA PR councillor for wards 15 and 13, Marlaine Nair, said someone started a rumour that a truck stop was being constructed and the general concern was that the activity on the site was affecting the traffic and pedestrians.
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“The area is residential and there has been no application for rezoning on record, therefore it is unlikely that a truck stop will be constructed on the site. The building inspectorate cannot intervene in a private site unless there is evidence of construction taking place.
“It is the prerogative of the landowner to clean his piece of land. However, the building inspector has advised that he would be meeting with the property owner and will enquire what plans the owner has for his property,” explained Nair.
She said in the meantime she has liaised with the local CPF and advised them to contact Metro Police for traffic issues surrounding the site.
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