DESPITE numerous environmental concerns, permission for mass occupation of the Mpuza Hill forest between Mandlanzini and Birdswood has been given to the Shembe church.
At a Section 4 meeting this (Thursday) morning, it was noted that the full force of arrival of worshippers – 10 000 or more – would take place on the weekend of 2 May.
A far lesser number is expected this (Easter) weekend.
The City of uMhlathuze has laid on electricity and water to a point adjacent to Mpuza Hill and the church will be responsible for distribution within the worship site.
The cost of the provision of services to the boundary was stated to be R35 000 and it was uncertain who would foot this bill.
It was also reported that about 1Ha of undergrowth outside the church’s 1.6Ha official lease area has been cleared, but there was no report of trees being chopped down.
The church will be providing portable toilets for the event, but questions regarding waste water and animal slaughtering went unanswered.
Traffic issues were also highlighted and a decision was made to turn Pelican Parade into a one-way street for the duration of the church occupation.
Alternate parking areas will also be demarcated.
‘Although there were a number of concerns, the approval was given without much of a fight,’ said one attendee.
‘It remains to be seen what action Ezemvelo and the Department of Environmental Affairs will take, but the mass occupation appears fait accompli.’
