Residents of a quiet neighbourhood feel uneasy as a new development in Kagiso Extension 4 has the potential of bringing unrest to the community.
It is reported that Xolani Mthongana, who owns several developments in the area, has build three blocks of flats inside the community, without the knowledge and go-ahead of the municipality. Nancy Mbalu, a resident within the community, said they have spoken to Mogale City Local Municipality about the unwanted building.
“Our first attempt was to spoke to our local councillor, who said the matter will be taken to the upper structure to be dealt with,” said Mbalu.
She further explained that a building inspector came to evaluate the building and he confirmed these flats were erected illegally because no building plans had been submitted for approval.
A meeting with the Mogale City Local Municipality followed after they submitted a petition. The outcome of the meeting was disheartening. Solly Lebogo, who was one of the delegates at the meeting representing the community, said they found it disturbing that the municipality did not want to hear them out.
Residents are still confused as to how the flats could be built without a plan and then be approved, only after construction started.
“We have knocked on every door for assistance, but we have been let down by our own municipality; the very same people who are supposed to be assisting us, are literally walking away,” said Mbalu.
The flat development has currently been stopped and the residents want the developer to remove the buildings for the sake of community’s peace.
Mthongana has confirmed that the building belongs to him and that he was aware of the community’s concerns. He told the News that there will be another meeting where those concerns will be discussed. He invited News intern journalist, Thato Monesi to this meeting.
The News also spoke to Happy Rammusi, the municipality’s building inspector, but he refused to give comment on the municipality’s behalf.
Mogale City’s communications department has been approached for comment on the matter numerous times, but none has been forthcoming.
