‘Sad day’ as demolition of McCausland Crescent property begins
Demolition of the property on McCausland Crescent began last week as part of the planned expansion and refurbishment of the Beverly Hills Hotel.
NOSTALGIA and sadness were common expressions among locals as the demolition of the last free-standing house along the uMhlanga Rocks promenade began last week.
The building along McCausland Crescent is being demolished as part of the planned expansion and refurbishment of the Beverly Hills Hotel. This follows significant uproar from the community regarding the potential culling of eight protected red milkwood trees and one white milkwood tree as part of the development process.
Sarah Allan, the project’s environmental assessment practitioner, confirmed on Thursday last week that while Tsogo Sun, the holding corporation, had not yet received approval for the development process. However, they have begun the demolition process as ‘vagrants and vandalism’ within the property was a concern.
In response to a notice posted on the Umhlanga UIP’s Facebook page, Debi Blake responded, “I don’t think there are any original really old buildings in uMhlanga Rocks. Apart from bits of the Oyster Box. No history.”
Similarly, Liesle Johnson expressed sadness at the destruction of the property which has been a ‘beautiful landmark for many, many years.’ However, Pete Graham supported the development, saying, “The house was a square block with no aesthetical architectural appeal so quite happy to see that go.”
Allan also told the Northglen News that while the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry had granted the corporation permission to remove the milkwood trees – under the condition that they replant five of the same species for every tree that is removed – none of the trees will be harmed during the demolition process.
“The house will simply be stripped. We will not be removing the trees during the demolition process. To spare the unnecessary removal of the trees we are waiting for the green light with regards to the expansion project,” said Allan.
The demolition process is expected to be completed by the end of September.
Related articles:
Milkwood tree battle continues
New concerns raised over eMdloti’s crumbling tower
Still no resolution at abandoned house
