Questions over Cresta’s expansion plans

Ward 98 Councillor Laurette van Zijl has raised concerns over the proposal for expansion made by Cresta Shopping Centre.

According to the councillor, Cresta Centre management submitted a proposal to the City Council of Johannesburg, asking permission to expand their existing building.

“Firstly, I have nothing against Cresta Centre management. My concerns come from trying to protect the community. Their application does not clarify what kind of ‘amusement’ they are applying for,” explained Van Zijl.

The councillor explained that, in December, she received the proposal too late but she sent out a petition to the community, asking for their views on the matter.

“Cresta Centre submitted their proposal on 27 November to the City Council. I sent out the petition to the public and I received 215 signatures, in time for the closing date which was 24 December,” Van Zijl continued.

“I have three concerns, the potential noise factor from the proposed amusement, traffic arrangement and parking for taxis,” emphasised the councillor.

Subsequent to the petition, Boston Associates Urban Planners, who are tasked with the expansion plans for Cresta Shopping Centre, contacted Van Zijl and promised to meet with her to discuss the matter.

According to the councillor, Cresta-Darrenwood Resident’s Association (CDRA) also signed the public petition.

CRDA sent a statement to this newspaper, which highlights their concerns about noise pollution, safety issues with regard to emergency exits and electricity services at the centre.

According to CRDA’s statement, “Their event on June 28 2014 in the Amphitheatre and the subsequent follow-up events in August and September exceeded their legal noise zone and noise footprint, in terms of Compliance with Environmental Conservation Act 73 of 1989.”

An email was sent two weeks ago, to the Marketing Department of Cresta Shopping Centre, but they are yet to respond on the matter.

Randburg Sun will follow up on this story once it has received a response from Cresta Centre management and once more / exact details of the proposed expansion are made available.

As a community member – what are your views on the proposed expansion plans by Cresta?

Facebook: Randburg Sun or Twitter: @randburg_sun or email: randburgsun@caxton.co.za

Details: Ward 98 councillor Laurette van Zijl lvanzij.l@absamail.co.za or 082 330 0593.