Oxford Freshmarket to break ground in Amanzimtoti

THE withdrawal of the compliance notice from the MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA), Siboniso Duma, is the only formality that stands in the way of an almost R240 million Oxford Freshmarket construction opposite Engen Galleria on Moss Kolnik Drive in Amanzimtoti.

Upon withdrawal, another three months are required for the project to go out on tender and an additional 12 to 18 months for the completion of the construction. The construction site, which was purchased in 2013 by the CEO of Oxford Freshmarket, Brett Latimer, is set to create 350 permanent jobs.

Also read: New Doonside mall awaits final approvals

“Oxford Freshmarket believes in economic development. This project will not only benefit local people through employment but also the taxes we pay to the National Treasury [will benefit the country],” Latimer said during an interview with the SUN last year.

He also expressed his intention to work with the local business forum, the taxi association and the local councillor to ensure all employment opportunities are fairly awarded. It has, however, been a long and frustrating journey for Latimer and his business partner, Paul Beltramo, after the site was purchased. According to Latimer, qualified environmentalists have failed to provide proof of the 20 000sqm coastal grassland, which they claimed, he destroyed.

“The history of the site has been completely ignored. The site had been lawfully cleared in 2003 by the previous owner to make way for a golf driving range,” he said.

Duma claimed that Latimer flatly refused to take advice to comply with environmental laws designed to protect the environment and ensure that the proposed project is authorised. Latimer said this stems from the fact that he refused to submit a Section 24G of the National Environmental Management Amendment (NEMA) Act application.

“I did not destroy the coastal grassland. On the contrary, several letters affirmed that irrespective of when the development is permitted to resume, it will be done in a manner that does not interfere with the surrounding natural environment.”

Latimer said that until the notice of non-compliance has been withdrawn by Duma from EDTEA, he will not put a spade into the ground. “Oxford’s tagline ‘With You in Mind’, represents our entire ethos. We are committed to our customers’ needs, the quality of the products we sell, the pricing of our produce, our staff and to grow our brand.”

While the co-founders patiently await the final documentation to commence with construction, the community of Amanzimtoti is eager for the shop to open its doors. There is no doubt that shoppers looking for fresh food at the best prices will welcome the black and red colours that distinctly mark Oxford stores as the super freshmarket giant expands its brand.

DID YOU KNOW?

Click on the words highlighted in red to read more on this and related topics. To receive news links via WhatsApp or Telegram, send an invite to 061 694 6047.

Do you have more information pertaining to this story? Feel free to let us know by commenting on our Facebook page or you can contact our newsroom at 031 903 2341 and speak to a journalist.

(Comments posted on this issue may be used for publication in the Sun)