Morningside residents say no to proposed development

MORNINGSIDE residents are objecting to a proposed commercial development at the Reservoir site at the intersection of Montpelier and Problem Mkhize (Cowey) Roads.

According to dismayed resident, Janet Morgan, this is a heritage site and is zoned residential.

“The proposed development has underground parking, first level shops then three floors of offices and eight floors of apartments. The owner of the plot has a height restriction of two stories. The people in the area are objecting to this monstrosity. The traffic department said that the traffic of more than 500 cars is fine for Montpelier Road, but we disagree,” she said.

Janet said residents were very disturbed that greed had prompted this proposal, at their expense. “We also feel Morningside has more than enough shops, restaurants, boutiques, coffee shops, the list is endless. I have sent an e-mail to council, stating that we will object. The noise levels will certainly de-value properties,” she said.

Ward councillor, Martin Meyer, said the rezoning process was slow and complicated. “At this early stage of the process, councillors are expected to remain neutral, as not to influence the process. Residents have 30 days to submit their objections or support in writing

to Land Use Management (LUM). I suggest these are hand delivered or sent by registered post. The application and objections are then looked at by a committee of LUM, which will suggest that it is approved or rejected. From here it goes to the Town Planning sub-committee,

that is a sub-committee of council. It is at this stage that a ward councillor gets involved, making sure the voices of residents are heard. They look at the application and recommendation and then vote on it. From there it goes through the Economic Development Committee to EXCO, and from EXCO to full council.”

Meyer said he was a firm believer that politicians’ involvement in this process was too strong. “Too often do we see the recommendation of the experts and the objections of residents ignored by those with a majority vote in the committee for whatever reason. National laws are however in the pipeline to rectify this matter. I have visited the LUM office, and looked at the application. I am aware that ward 27, like the rest of the city, is in need of job creation and development, but the well-being of residents is also of great importance. The impact on traffic, safety and security, pollution and property prices should also be kept in mind,” he said.

If residents e-mailing objections, they should cc councillor Meyer at ward27@ethekwini.org