Public Encouraged to Participate in Prasa and HDA Land Use Proposals

Prasa and HDA have proposed to rezone two land parcels in Philippi for human settlements development. The City has initiated a public comment period to collect feedback on the proposed plans, reflecting their commitment to transparency and public involvement. The Municipal Planning Tribunal, an independent land use regulator, will assess the suitability of rezoning, and public engagement is crucial in shaping the community’s future. This process ensures that every stakeholder has a voice in decisions on land use and development.

What is Prasa and HDA’s proposal for land rezoning?

Prasa and HDA have filed land use applications for the rezoning of two land parcels located at 34 and 42 Weltevreden Road, Philippi. The City has initiated a public comment period from October 20 to November 27, 2023, to collect feedback on Prasa and HDA’s proposed plans. The Municipal Planning Tribunal will assess the suitability of rezoning the parcels for human settlements development and may impose conditions to ensure proper development. Public input is crucial in shaping the community’s future.

Prasa and HDA’s Proposal for Land Rezoning

The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) and the Housing Development Agency (HDA) have made significant progress in addressing the critical need for human settlements development. They have filed land use applications for the rezoning of two land parcels located at 34 and 42 Weltevreden Road, Philippi. Acknowledging the value of public participation, the City has initiated a public comment period lasting from October 20 to November 27, 2023, to collect feedback on Prasa and HDA’s proposed plans.

The submission of these applications follows a land invasion on Prasa’s central line just before the national Covid-19 lockdown. In response, Prasa secured an eviction order from the Western Cape High Court, designating the HDA to manage land acquisition, planning approval applications, and the removal of illegal occupants. The land under consideration was purchased from a private landowner, and the current applications seek to rezone the parcels from Agricultural to Single Residential Zoning 2.

As an independent land use regulator, the City demonstrates its commitment to transparency and public involvement by inviting the public to comment on Prasa and HDA’s proposals. The City follows the Municipal Planning By-Law, which mandates a public comment period for land use applications like these. Following this period, the Municipal Planning Tribunal (MPT) will review the comments and decide on the applications.

The Municipal Planning Tribunal’s Role

The MPT, comprised of external professionals and City-appointed officials, will assess the suitability of rezoning the parcels for human settlements development. They will examine factors such as municipal spatial policy, relevant District Plans, and infrastructure capacity for the proposed development scale. However, it is crucial to understand that the MPT’s authority is limited to evaluating the land’s appropriateness for development and not deciding on potential beneficiaries of residential projects.

If the rezoning is approved, the MPT may impose conditions to ensure the proper development of future human settlements. In instances where relevant parties are unhappy with the MPT’s decision, they have the right to appeal. These appeals will be reviewed by the Planning Appeals Advisory Panel (PAAP), which makes recommendations to the Executive Mayor, the final Appeal Authority per the Municipal Planning By-law.

To participate in the process, interested parties can submit comments, objections, and representations to comments_objections.capeflats@capetown.gov.za. The City urges the public to engage in this process to guarantee the best possible outcomes for all stakeholders. Additionally, those who want to view the land use application can call 021 684 4369 to schedule an appointment with the appropriate district office.

Public Engagement and the Future of Human Settlements Development

The partnership between Prasa, HDA, and the City reflects a firm commitment to addressing the urgent issue of human settlements development in South Africa. By allowing public input, the City is cultivating a transparent and inclusive environment in which various viewpoints can be considered. This process ensures that every stakeholder has a voice in shaping their community’s future, leading to more informed and thoughtful decisions on land use and development.

What are the two land parcels being proposed for rezoning in Philippi?

The two land parcels being proposed for rezoning in Philippi are located at 34 and 42 Weltevreden Road. The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) and the Housing Development Agency (HDA) have filed land use applications for the purpose of human settlements development.

When is the public comment period for these proposed land use plans?

The public comment period for the proposed land use plans is from October 20 to November 27, 2023. The City encourages the public to participate and provide feedback on the proposed plans.

Who will assess the suitability of the proposed rezoning?

The Municipal Planning Tribunal (MPT), an independent land use regulator, will assess the suitability of the proposed rezoning. They will review factors such as municipal spatial policy, relevant District Plans, and infrastructure capacity for the proposed development scale.

What is the MPT’s role in this process?

The MPT’s role is to assess the appropriateness of rezoning the parcels for human settlements development. If the rezoning is approved, the MPT may impose conditions to ensure proper development. It is important to note that the MPT does not decide on potential beneficiaries of residential projects.

What happens if relevant parties are unhappy with the MPT’s decision?

If relevant parties are unhappy with the MPT’s decision, they have the right to appeal. The Planning Appeals Advisory Panel (PAAP) will review the appeal and make recommendations to the Executive Mayor, who is the final appeal authority per the Municipal Planning By-law.

How can interested parties participate in the process?

Interested parties can submit comments, objections, and representations to comments_objections.capeflats@capetown.gov.za. They can also view the land use application by calling 021 684 4369 to schedule an appointment with the appropriate district office.

Who purchased the land parcels under consideration?

The land parcels under consideration were purchased from a private landowner.

What is the City’s commitment to transparency and public involvement?

The City demonstrates its commitment to transparency and public involvement by following the Municipal Planning By-law, which mandates a public comment period for land use applications. By inviting the public to provide feedback on the proposed plans, the City is cultivating a transparent and inclusive environment in which various viewpoints can be considered. This process ensures that every stakeholder has a voice in shaping their community’s future.