Pomona residents determined to fight new houses
A fund has been started to raise money to hire a specialist attorney to represent affected parties
THOSE affected by a new housing project in Pomona are determined to fight till the end to stop the plans from going ahead.
This was revealed at the last Pomona Residents’ Association meeting on March 26 regarding the metro’s proposed township development on Portion 2 of Holding 293 Pomona Estates Agricultural Holdings.
Terry Rubenstein, chairman of the association, said residents had two factors on which to base their objection against the development.
“The first fight is based on the environmental impact on the land and the second one on logistics,” Rubenstein said.
“Our first argument is from an environmental perspective and how the housing development will affect nature. According to national laws of housing development and planning, there are certain regulations to abide by that pertain to the fauna and flora, pollution issues and recreational purposes.”
The second fight, Rubenstein elaborated, is more logistical where factors such as overpopulation and adequate infrastructure for the growing population need to be seriously considered.
Whether or not there are enough schools, clinics, shops and other infrastructure to cater for all the people who will occupy the new homes are some of the questions which need to be considered before building.
“The strength of our fight lies in the strength of the community’s objection. We as residents need to stand together to oppose this development and this includes saving money and hiring professionals to help us.”
In the meantime, affected parties can contribute towards the fund by donating R200 over the next 10 months to raise funds for attorneys’ fees.
“We know that not everyone can afford this amount but when you think about the investment you have made in your house or any other property you own, paying just R200 will be worth it.”
The next meeting will be on Saturday at Laerskool Bredell from 10am until noon.
During this meeting, Nemai Consultants will give feedback to residents regarding how far the procedures regarding the Environmental Impact Assessment.
