The Parkmore Community Association (PCA) is asking community members to submit their objections to a proposed land rezoning in the area, allowing landowners to build over 10 storeys.
PCA chairperson, Kate Wardle said the proposed rezoning is to change from residential to special, proposing properties of 10 storeys or more in the area that currently only allows for 3-5 storeys.
“The proposal is at 10 storeys, at the moment, but if they are rezoned to ‘special’, then there is nothing stopping them from building higher than 10 storeys, later on. This is contrary to our Parkmore Precinct Plan, which is currently under review,” said Wardle.
A number of community members have already voiced their concerns about this proposal, citing increased traffic, security risks, noise pollution and reduction of property value as some of their objections.
The properties currently applying for the rezoning include 142 9th Avenue and 141 7th Avenue, Parkmore. In the application for 142 9th Avenue, they request a permit to build a high-density residential and mixed-use development including hotels, restaurants, shops, office space and residential units.
The PCA has shared an online link to sign an objection via their Facebook page and encourages residents to sign the objection. The PCA will then ensure these objections are lodged with the City.
Ward councillor Martin Williams said that residents are encouraged to make full use of the opportunity to comment on the proposed rezoning. “In the affected section of Parkmore, close to Grayston Drive, there has been some degradation. So there is a need for improvements, yet residents are understandably apprehensive about the way the Sandton business area is creeping westwards. That process of change will have to be carefully managed in terms of legislation, including the Regional Spatial Development Framework,” said Williams.
Residents who wish to comment are reminded that if they lodge objections, they should be prepared to attend the resulting municipal planning tribunal.
The deadline for objections on this matter is 25 October. People can submit their objections to the City via email to benp@joburg.org.za. Residents should ask for a receipt of their submissions.
Equally critical are the documents pertaining to the draft land use scheme – this would include relaxing building lines to 0m at rear and side, allowing two houses per erf in Parkmore and increasing density on each erf. Please look at the draft by 13 October.
Objections to this scheme should be emailed to CoJLandUseSchemeComments@joburg.org.za. A draft objection letter will be supplied on the PCA’s Facebook page.
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