AHEAD of a proposed legal battle the Ethekwini Ratepayers Protest Movement (ERPM) is seeking support to fight the City’s plan to build low-cost houses in North Beach’s Playfair Road. Following the cries of residents and ratepayers in the area, the help of ERPM was enlisted.

On the vacant site was once Seaside Children’s Home, which ceased to exist around 2018.

In September, the City shared an update to proceed with the plans, under its Inner-City Regeneration Programme.

Also read: North Beach ratepayers poke holes in City’s low-cost housing plans

Then, and even a few years later residents and ratepayers in North Beach raised objections, citing increased traffic and crime, infrastructure pressure, and most importantly a possible plummet in property values.

In its statement, ERPM lamented, “The City is pushing ahead with plans to build low-cost housing on Durban’s Beachfront, despite objections from residents regarding the rezoning and the project. Land clearing is underway, with construction set to begin in 2026.

Also read: Spike in car theft in North Beach concerns police

“We’re asking for a R120 membership fee to support ERPM’s efforts to challenge this project. Our goal is to gather over 500 members to make this viable. Instead of waiting for construction to start, let’s act now! Join us using this link https://www.erpm.org.za.”

Residents have also raised concerns about the potential blow to the local tourism industry.

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