Ward councillor Deppe calls on MMC Masango to discuss land
MIDRAND – Joburg City MMC for Development Planning Reuben Masango talks to the community about the use and development of land.
Ward 132 councillor Annette Deppe called a meeting with the Joburg City MMC for Development Planning Reuben Masango on 1 April to discuss the Land Use Scheme 2018 which was launched on 2 January this year and implemented from 1 February.
The Land Use Scheme 2018 sets out the various ‘use zones’ applicable to land and buildings in the City of Johannesburg and lists the purpose for which such land may and may not be used and the purpose for which such land and buildings may only be used with the consent of the council.
The meeting was held at the Midrand Fire Station to discuss how the scheme will give effect to the City’s municipal spatial development framework, as well as determine the use and development of land within the City’s area of jurisdiction to promote, among other things, economic growth, social inclusion and efficient land development. Discussions were also focused on the nodal policy and inclusionary housing.
Residents at the meeting argued that they were not being involved as the community. One concerned Kyalami resident Rosemary Sandison claimed the reason for the community’s turnout at the meeting was that the land use scheme was approved with very little public participation.
Sandison claimed, “One of our local councillors notified us that there was a meeting with developers and the MMC just hours before the meeting. We wondered why we weren’t included as residents although the commenting period is over and everything was approved by the City.”
In response, Masango said the meeting was called by the local councillor because many of the people who had raised concerns were developers and town planners. He added that they were happy for residents to get involved.
Community members also raised the issue of not being able to understand the land use scheme and that it is difficult for them to understand what the City is implementing.
Masango said they were doing outreaches which included meetings and radio interviews to explain the City’s plans and how it would affect ordinary residents. “My office is open to the public and media to bring enlightenment to the new legislature.”
