THE Umhlanga Ratepayers and Residents Association (URRA) has formally lodged papers in the Durban High Court seeking an urgent interdict to suspend the planned Herrwood Drive upgrade to four lanes.

In July the City revealed that the upgrade was being privately funded and that the road was being earmarked for an upgrade to a four-lane road (two lanes in each direction) with a centre island and sidewalks.

However, residents raised objections about the upgrade process over what they allege to be a lack of due procedures, which they said were not followed.

Two public meetings have been held in an effort to address residents’ concerns.

Duncan Heafield, vice-chairman of URRA, said the legal action follows repeated but unsuccessful attempts by URRA to obtain adequate information and secure meaningful participation in the decision-making process from the eThekwini Municipality.

Also read: uMhlanga ratepayers body addresses service-delivery issues with mayor

“Despite the significant implications of the proposed roadworks, affected residents, whose properties will be directly impacted and may suffer substantial loss of value, have not been afforded a lawful and transparent consultation process.

“The community cannot be sidelined in matters that so directly affect their livelihoods and property rights. Due process must be followed, and residents must be heard before such an intrusive project is implemented,” the statement from URRA read.

He added the ratepayers body wanted an assurance which included a full disclosure of the project details, and residents having the opportunity to engage in a lawful, transparent, and meaningful consultation process.

“URRA reiterates that it is not opposed to development or infrastructure improvements, but insists that such projects must be conducted within the framework of legality, fairness, and respect for the rights of the affected community.”

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