JoburgCAN has voiced strong objections to the proposed rezoning of the Parkhurst Bowls Club, which is set to be transformed into a high-density commercial development.

Regional Manager for JoburgCAN Julia Fish argued that this shift away from recreational use undermines the community’s needs and interests.

Read more: JoburgCAN unimpressed by city’s citizen annual report

The site, previously open to public tender for developments focused on recreational use, has seen various proposals over the years. These include plans for soccer academies, sports grounds, and even a shelter for displaced persons.

However, when the bidders for the tender were announced, the intended use of the property abruptly changed from a community-focused initiative to high-density commercial use, raising questions about the decision-making process.

Fish emphasised the importance of preserving the Braamfontein Spruit, which runs alongside and behind the property. She described it as a vital green lung for the area, suggesting that its preservation could enhance sensitive development in the broader urban zone for residential purposes.

JoburgCAN believes that maintaining recreational use on the site would better serve the community and align with its current zoning. “As planned, the commercial development will have a significant negative impact on the community, in terms of access to resources, the viability of existing businesses, and public amenity.”

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