While the application by residents to buy a portion of public open space on Erf 1319 in Tamboerskloof received full support at Sub-council 16 last month, some of their neighbours are concerned about the impact the loss of the land could have on the area.
The residents intend to use the space in Woodside Road to extend their garden.
At a previous sub-council meeting on May 21, the matter was postponed for an on-site inspection, which took place on June 5.
A notice of the application was sent to relevant stakeholders and other residents were given time to have their say on the matter.
Some objected to the application, stating that the proposed selling price was below market value and suggested a public auction or tender so everyone could get a chance to bid on it fairly.
Others said the property had been a natural parkland and was the last piece of open land which was covered by tall, old trees. They were concerned that public open space that benefited the broader community would be forever lost.
The City of Cape Town’s mayoral committee member for assets and facilities management, Stuart Diamond, said the City allows a statutory application process when “non-viable” City-owned land is sold.
This, he said, includes among other things, pre-consultation, technical investigation and a comprehensive approval process which includes compliance with legislative and policy requirements as well as financial and legal compliance.
“Following an inclusive consultation process which included a site visit, Sub-council 16, at the meeting commented that the disposal of a portion of public open space, Erf 1319, Tamboerskloof, is supported. The proposed recommendation will be submitted to the decision-making authority in due course.”
He said that as part of the approval process, council would consider the fair market value of the land.
