FCC close to impounding undeveloped plots-Muzila
Chakalisa Dube | Tuesday May 26, 2015 16:27
She revealed that over 1,265 plots remain undeveloped in the city with Gerald Estates accounting for more undeveloped plots with 1,168. Most of the plots have surpassed their two-year development period, according to the mayor.
She explained that the alternative schemes such as the turnkey programme and building material loan schemes offered by SHHA could be used to develop the plots. In addition the mayor said 17 industrial and commercial plots allocated at Gerald Estates have so far not been developed.
“There are also some undeveloped plots at Dumela Industrial. Out of 94 industrial plots at Somerset West, 42 are developed. We are also going to ascertain that all those that have been surpassed by their development period are repossessed,” a visible concerned Muzila said.
She said that lack of development of industrial plots hampers the city’s efforts to attract investors.
The mayor noted that the council has for a long time remained silent, without taking action against those who do not develop plots allocated to them for a longer period of time.
“It is my concern that though there is dire need for accommodation in the city, Self Help Housing Agency (SHHA) plots, both in our new and old locations, remain undeveloped or abandoned. Some of these plots have now been turned into hiding places for criminals. “Despite this, our waiting list currently stands at 29,000 applicants. Given these facts, it would be proper that the plots that remain too long without being developed should be repossessed and allocated to those on the waiting list,” she said.
On another issue, Muzila revealed that a company engaged to refurbish and lease the FCC abattoir has not done much work at the facility.
“Progress has been slow. The company is currently constructing the boundary wall and no work has commenced on the main structure. My hope is that the works on the main structure will commence soon so that the abattoir is put to use.”
Early this year owners of Judex Ventures, the company leased to use the abattoir, said that they are still working on securing funds to refurbish the facility.
Last July, the company signed a 20-year lease to use the abattoir.