Residents from Nhlazatshe, Elukwatini and Tjakastad took to the streets recently, blocking the R541 with burning tyres and rocks during a protest over a proposed shopping mall near the Oshoek turn-off.
The protest comes amid growing concerns over delays surrounding the proposed development, which developers say could create employment opportunities and stimulate economic activity in the area.
Developers June Thobela and Mike Sibiya, together with landowner Mcolisi Ginindza, said the project could bring much-needed investment to the area. They added that water infrastructure required for the development could also assist in addressing water supply challenges in surrounding communities.
According to the developers and community members supporting the project, the development has been delayed by outstanding planning and land-use approvals.
They claim the municipality has been slow in issuing the required rezoning documentation, with additional requirements allegedly being raised whenever documents are submitted.
The proposed shopping mall would be built on privately owned land covered by a title deed. The landowners have agreed to make the property available for development.
However, because of the nature and classification of the land, approval from the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development is required before it can be used for the proposed development.
Community members supporting the project said delays in obtaining the required consent were frustrating efforts to unlock the development.
They also alleged that some business interests could be opposing the project. The allegations have not been independently verified. Community members referred to a petition allegedly submitted against the development, but the identity of the person behind it was not disclosed.
The developers said only one major piece of paperwork remains outstanding — a consent letter from the Department of Agriculture.
A delegation is expected to meet with officials from the department on Monday to discuss the application and seek approval.
Supporters of the project said the proposed mall forms part of a broader effort to attract investment and create employment opportunities in Nhlazatshe and surrounding areas.
They said they also want local resources, including nearby farms, to be better utilised to support job creation and business opportunities.
The developers believe the development could encourage residents to spend more of their money locally instead of travelling elsewhere for shopping and services.
“Our aim is to bring bigger projects to the area, create jobs and help eradicate poverty,” said members supporting the development.
They said the long-term goal was to strengthen the local economy and create opportunities that could help residents build sustainable livelihoods.
“In the long run, we want to stop urbanisation,” the community members said.
Meanwhile, CALM spokesperson Thapelo Phetla said the municipality was aware of reports concerning the closure of the R541 outside Elukwatini.
“The circumstances surrounding the reported road closure are being attended to through the relevant structures,” said Phetla.
He appealed to residents to raise their concerns peacefully and avoid obstructing public roads.
“This may endanger lives and disrupt essential services,” he said.
Phetla also rejected claims that the municipality was unwilling to engage with the developers and other stakeholders.
“The suggestion that the municipality is unwilling to engage with the developer and relevant stakeholders is incorrect,” he said.
According to Phetla, Executive Mayor Magubane convened engagements involving the municipal administration, the developer and community representatives on September 17.
“A further virtual meeting was held on September 18 between the municipality and the developer, Sibiya, to assess progress and determine the way forward,” he said.
Phetla said it was confirmed during the meeting that the developer had submitted an application to the DALRRD on September 8.
“The department advised that the application was still at an early stage and would need to undergo the required internal assessment processes before a reference number could be issued,” he said
