A recent decision by the Municipal Planning Tribunal (MPT) has given the green light to a significant development project on Erf 7669 at 5 Goldman Road in Somerset West, also known as Somerset Lodge.
The approval, granted during a meeting on Tuesday 26 November, includes the deletion of a previous condition limiting the property’s use to a guest house, a relaxation of building height and floor-area restrictions, and the approval of a detailed site development plan.
The development application was fiercely objected to by hundreds of residents earlier this year (“Proposed complex for Somerset West CBD slammed,” DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette 28 February) and a petition was also launched. Since then, residents have expressed further frustration and disappointment, with many feeling that their voices were just dismissed.
During the meeting held two weeks ago the MPT approved the removal of a condition that previously restricted the property to guest-house use, and portion of Block A was allowed to reach a height of 15,935 metres, exceeding the standard 15-metre limit.
“The MPT’s decision was based on a comprehensive assessment of the development proposal, considering factors such as traffic impact, infrastructure capacity and compliance with zoning regulations.
“While some objections were raised, the MPT determined that the project would not significantly exacerbate existing traffic congestion and would meet the broader development principles outlined in relevant legislation,” it was stated.
To ensure the successful implementation of the project, the MPT imposed a number of conditions, including inspection of services, Wastewater Treatment Plant approval and that the developer should maintain open communication with the local community, addressing any concerns and providing regular updates on the project’s progress.
According to local resident Tiffany Schultz, who also launched an online petition that has already garnered more than 600 signatures, there are many residents rallying against the MPT decisions as the project involves the conversion of the historic Somerset Lodge into a mixed-use building, and had sparked widespread outrage and disbelief within the community.
More than 50 residents, including Schultz, a vocal opponent of the development, submitted formal objections expressing deep concerns about the project’s potential impact on the heritage significance of the building, increased density and traffic congestion.
“It’s a complete disregard for our community’s concerns. We’ve fought hard to preserve the character of our town, and this decision undermines our efforts.”
She also emphasised the heritage significance of Somerset Lodge and the surrounding area. “This building is a part of our history,” she said. “It’s not just a building; it’s a piece of our heritage.”
Residents are now exploring legal avenues to challenge the MPT’s decision. They believe that the tribunal’s decision was flawed and that the development does not align with the principles of sustainable urban development.
“We won’t give up,” Schultz vowed. “The decision to approve this development is disheartening. The community’s concerns, which were clearly articulated in numerous written objections and verbal submissions, have been largely disregarded. This development will have a negative impact on the quality of life for residents and the overall aesthetic appeal of the area.”
She also urged the tribunal to reconsider its decision and prioritise the interests of the local community.. For more details on the petition, visit https://www.change.org/p/opposition-to-the-development-proposal-for-a-block-of-flats-surrounding-the-somerset-lodge
