The City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) observes November 8 as World Town Planning Day and has dedicated November as the City Planning Month to advance public and professional interest in town planning and promote the role of planning in creating liveable communities.
The CoE covers an area of about 1 975km², and 52% of that (1 027km²) is dolomitic. The remaining 48% (948 km²) is what remains for development.
Through its city planning department, the CoE has unlocked parts of the dolomitic land parcels for different use.
Dolomitic land can be used for different needs, including agricultural and residential purposes. For building purposes, prescribed material must be used to avoid the development of sinkholes.
Furthermore, the CoE has established mechanisms to rapidly respond to incidents of sinkholes by rehabilitating them and temporarily relocating families when residential areas are affected.
During the World Planning Month, Ekurhuleni ensures it publicly communicate its built environment initiatives.
The World Town Planning Month is an opportunity for the CoE to focus on its development achievements and progress regarding:
• Impact of finalised development and building plan applications
• Progress of new development initiatives such as Growth Management Strategy, Integrated Infrastructure Master Plan, Policies and by-law implementation
• Status of precinct plans
• Implementation of mega bulk projects
This year, the CoE will host a series of events through webinars and consultative meetings with the business community to find a common understanding of the rules and regulations relevant to city planning among others.
