City calls for public participation at the land use scheme public consultative meetings
The meetings are a platform for residents to have their say in the framework which shapes how land is used across the city, with the aim for more equitable, efficient, and eco-friendly Johannesburg.
The city’s Department of Development Planning calls on all residents and interested parties to participate in the public consultative meeting to review it’s land use scheme policy of 2018.
The department held the first public participation session on February 15 at Ivory Park’s Lord Khanyile Community Hall for Region A.
Also read: Meetings to discuss Land Use Scheme
Ezekiel Khosi, from Land Use Managment (LUS), told attendees that this is a legislative tool used by the city to guide and manage development in accordance with it’s vision, strategies, and policies, and it promotes sustainable development and quality of life for all its residents.
“The first city’s land use scheme, as set out in Section 24(1) of the Spatial Planning Land Use Management Act (SPLUMA), became formally operational on February 1, 2019. In terms of Section 27(1) of SPLUMA, the municipality is required to review its land use scheme at least every five years,” said Khosi.
He said, the city has commenced with the public participation process, in which residents will have the opportunity to give input into the framework that shapes how land is used across the city.
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The public consultative meetings will be held in all seven regions of the city and are open to all residents.
The scheme outlines development rights enshrined to different properties, and provides owners with a variety of possibilities for developing their properties through applications, such as rezoning, building extensions, and operating business opportunities.
Some of the proposed changes includes more economic opportunities, informal settlement regularisation, and support for a greener economy.
Development Planning MMC Eunice Mgcina has urged all residents to attend the consultative meetings to air their views, concerns, and recommendations. “We are making an impassioned plea to all residents to participate in these upcoming public consultation meetings on the review of the city’s land use scheme. This is an important opportunity for their voices and opinions to be heard and for them to contribute to shaping the future of land use in our communities. The feedback from our residents is important and invaluable in ensuring that the policy reflects the needs and aspirations of all members of the public.”
The closing date for comments is March 7, and can be emailed to [email protected] or [email protected]
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