Two weeks ago, the Freedom Front Plus provided reasons for opposing the Vyfhoek township development. The ANC whip, Mpho Matsapola has since responded, saying the development will continue as planned.
In the previous report, the FF Plus’s Fanie du Toit is quoted as saying, ‘establishing a new township is just not economically viable’.
He highlighted a number of issues like the municipality’s inability to maintain the current infrastructure and deteriorating roads at present. He argued that the development would bring a high density of traffic and would probably negatively affect the current house market in the area.
Also read: Freedom Front Plus opposes township development on Vyfhoek farm
This week, however, Matsapola said development is the core and fundamental responsibility of a local government. ‘We will, therefore, always support such development that is inclusive, advances economic growth, provides engineering services linkage and addresses poverty, unemployment and inequality,’ she said.
‘We understand that the FF Plus and the DA had objected to the proposed development, even before the township establishment has been tested through various analyses in terms of the environmental impact assessment, geological study, traffic impact study and engineering services report.’
According to Matsapola, their intention was to frustrate the development through mobilising mob objections and petitions. ‘The project steering committee has already warned council of this conduct.’
‘The western part of the Tlokwe region has been completely developed and the available land is affected by dolomite. Council will, therefore, pursue development towards the eastern part of the region that will foster societal integration,’ she said.
The ANC whip said the objection was clearly based on the fact that the beneficiaries would largely be black people. ‘Private development has happened in a similar fashion and there has never been an objection or petition.’
‘We support the development and trust that the project steering committee will deal with such petitions or objections in the soundest administrative fashion.
In the council meeting of 27 February this year, the report that sought to approve the planning of a township was considered by council and the DA made a meaningful contribution,’ she said.
