Mutare stalls cluster houses project

MUTARE City Council says it has not approved the proposed development of cluster houses in one of the town’s low density suburbs.

The housing project, which is expected to have 23 houses on stand number 7568 Mutare Township measuring 5,4 hectares, was sold to Abdul Wahid in November 1998 to initially establish an old people’s home.

The project was cleared on the condition that the recipient perform an environmental impact assessment (EIA) prior to beginning construction activities. However, it has been revealed that the proposed housing project would be built on a wetland and would not pass the EIA test. In a press statement issued this week, acting town clerk Blessing Chafesuka stated that the project was on hold until the Local Government and Public Works ministry approved the reservation adjustment. "Stand 7568 Mutare township was sold by council on November 27, 1998 for the establishment of an old people's retirement home on condition that the beneficiary shall conduct an environmental impact assessment before the commencement of any construction activities," Chafesuka said in a statement.

"Upon submission of a proposal to construct cluster houses in 2022 by the beneficiary, council resolved to apply to the minister of Local Government and Public works for approval of a change of reservation, which application is still under the minister's consideration." He stated that the Local Government and Public Works Minister, through the Department of Social Planning and Development, had instructed Mutare City to provide confirmation from the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) that the site could be developed sustainably.

Chafesuka stated that council recommended the landowner to do an EIA in consultation with all stakeholders, advising them to address their concerns through formal channels. "Please note that council has not yet approved any development for cluster houses on the land in question until the change of reservation is approved," added the council member. Meanwhile, Edson Dube, programme director of the United Mutare Residents and Ratepayers Trust, has asked for proper engagement in the situation.

"The news of wetland invasion has caused widespread concern among progressive Mutare citizens who care about the environment. "We really need these ecosystems," Dube stated. "We need to engage the investor, council, EMA, and parent ministry. We save what little we have and meet the investor somewhere.