Tensions are rising between residents and Rean Booysen, a property developer in Alberton, over a proposed new development.

Spearheaded by Booysen, the project has drawn strong objections from local communities, though not everyone is opposed to it.

If the City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) approved it, the development would impact parts of the Meyersdal Eco Estate, Bassonia Rock, areas south of Linmeyer, and the Risana townships.

These communities are between the Klipriviersberg Ridge to the south and west, the N12 to the north, and the R59 freeway to the east.

A hearing on the objections to the proposed Meyersdal Ext 31 development will take place on February 11.
Property developer’s plan:

The developer is proposing the establishment of an area known as Meyersdal Ext 31, also referred to as the Meyersdal Valley Estate, covering approximately 75ha adjacent to the Meyersdal Eco Estate.

The property developer’s proposal includes:
• Develop 240 residential stands valued at R1.5m each
• 350 retirement units
• 800 upmarket townhouses
• Clubhouse, padel, crèche, restaurant, gym, offices, and other facilities.

The objectors’ view:

The objectors, some of whom are residents of the Meyersdal Eco Estate and some members of residential associations in Alberton, raised concerns about the procedure followed to apply for the proposed development, and they believe it will have a negative impact on:

• Essential infrastructure
• Traffic
• The environment
• Property values.

CoE hearing on the matter:

The City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) will hold a hearing about the objections to the proposed Meyersdal Ext 31 development on February 11.

“The application and hearing of objections about ward 106 township establishment – portion 136 and 240 of the farm Klipriviersberg,” reads a communiqué from the city’s Development Planning and Real Estate Department.

• Hearing time: 10:30
• Venue: Alberton Fourth floor Council Chamber, Alberton CCA.

Developer’s comment:

In light of the objections, the Alberton Record posed some questions to Booysen:

1. What outcome are you hoping for after the hearing on 11 February?

A master plan for the Meyersdal Nature Area was submitted to the Municipality in 2001 – approximately 25 years ago.

The current project forms part of the approved master plan. We intend it to be assessed and approved within that established framework. The application is for a low-density development, as only 25% of the area will be developed.

2. Any message to residents and residential associations who are opposed to the proposed development?

We acknowledge that change often raises concerns. Historically, all Meyersdal projects have attracted objections at their inception.

However, over time, these developments had been embraced and ultimately contributed to the desirability and success of the area. We can confidently assure stakeholders that this project will be developed to the same high quality and standard as our previous successful developments in Meyersdal.

3. You are accused of not following due process in wanting the development to be approved. Your response to the accusations?

We strongly deny the allegations raised. Development initiatives in this area have been in process for over 25 years, which demonstrates our adherence to due processes rather than avoidance of it.

All projects undertaken by us in Meyersdal have followed the required statutory and public participation processes.

@albertonrecord

A big fight is looming over a proposed and controversial multimillion rand property development project in Alberton. The objectors vs the property developer. Full story on albertonrecord.co.za #Alberton #Meyersdal #ekurhuleni

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4. Why are you so determined to get this project going, despite the objections?

As outlined above, this project has been in development for a considerable time. While we acknowledge that it may not align with everyone’s preferences, it cannot reasonably be halted solely due to inconvenience to a few, particularly where there is a clear and pressing market demand.

We had always provided the market with quality developments that uplifted these areas. Objections are part of the process (as with all previous estates that we developed in the area). We are proud of the products we deliver, and this project will be no different.

Our area needs more security estates, and the inclusion of a retirement village will benefit our community. We believe our developments also address the needs of a large part of the Alberton community.

5. Any other comment you would like to add?

We are confident that this development will further enhance the desirability of the Meyersdal area, building on the success of projects such as the Eco Estate and Nature Estate.

We believe it will positively contribute to property values in Meyersdal and the surrounding areas, including Alberante.