Joburg mum on Makro hearing
MAGALIESSIG - Residents have been battling a proposed Makro building plan for three years.
It has been three months since a Johannesburg Planning Commitee hearing on whether Makro may build a superstore in the suburb, but there was no announcement or outcome yet.
Three years ago, residents formed the Magaliessig Action Forum to oppose the superstore development and its expected impacts on their residential area.
Chairman of the forum Mary Hanna said, It is already the third anniversary since the group of Magaliessig residents first came together to oppose this plan. We are grateful for continued support to protect the best interests of everyone living in Magaliessig and nearby suburbs.
She believed the outcome of the hearing would have far-reaching impacts on residents throughout the city. Should Makros application be successful in this instance, in total contravention of existing City of Johannesburg policy, the implications for other suburbs in Johannesburg are extremely dangerous.
“It would mean that no area would be safe from commercial creep, residents rights are of no consequence, and expectations that the municipality would adhere to their own policies would have no value.
The parties would be allowed to object to the outcome of the hearing. Hanna said, Whatever happens, we will continue to oppose the development on every level possible, as we still firmly believe that it is fundamentally inappropriate for the site.
“Residents have demonstrated time and again that they do not want the huge Makro store overwhelming Magaliessing. The forum acted as a residents association in the suburb and is now a Section 21 company.
We intend to take action to protect, promote and improve the residential suburb. Aside from opposing commercial creep, we are working with residents on safety and security, roads and signage, parks and litter, and social activity.
