Donnelly Road flat revamp green-lighted
REPAIRS are finally confirmed for the Donnelly Road council flats, with 143 units.
The announcement was made at the February meeting of the ward 66 war room, on Wednesday, 5 February. “This is good news,” said ward 66 councillor, Duncan Du Bois. The flats are part of a former convent, which was partially burnt down and had fallen into disrepair. In August 2013, the municipality confirmed the upgrade plans were undergoing approval.
“The MEC for human settlements had approved the project. It is envisaged that the project will realise 128 new units plus 15 refurbished units,” said Natasha Govender, deputy manager at the KZN Department of Human Settlements.
About 100 people are living on the premises, which includes four buildings, one of which was burnt down, two stand-alone buildings and the convent.
According to Du Bois, construction is not expected to commence until the second half of the year as preliminary aspects, concerning a business plan and an assessment report, first have to be completed.
“What is particularly pleasing about this promised overhaul is that it will put an end to the negative effect this eyesore is having on the value of other properties in the vicinity. This revamp will help in arresting the decline of the rates base in the area,” said Du Bois.
– erinh@dbn.caxton.co.za
