The fate of the planned regional shopping centre at the Ermelo Showgrounds is yet to be finally determined.
On Monday, in a tribunal heard by chairman Mandla Zulu, an advocate appointed by the municipality, opposing parties had the opportunity to plead their cases to the Msukaligwa Local Municipality.
Representatives of the Moolman Group, developers of the shopping centre, and the two objecting parties presented their heads of arguments.
The Moolman Group is adamant that there is a definite need for the mall and suggested objectors make their peace with the idea.
Some of the objections were that other shopping outlets in town will stand empty once the mall is built and that the show grounds were earmarked for residential and not commercial purposes.
Also, the application from the Moolman Group for the development of a township consisting of only two erven should not have been approved as it is not in line with the rezoning process.
The objectors are also of the opinion that such a large mall will be unsustainable in Ermelo, especially in the light of the bypass Sanral is planning for the town.
The Msukaligwa Tribunal reserved its decision pending all heads of arguments being examined and will announce the outcome and their decision in due course.
For free breaking and community news, visit our websites:
Ridge Times, Standerton Advertiser & Highvelder
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
BBM – 2667A726
WhatsApp – 0748877590