WHAT IS THE NELSON MANDELA BAY MUNICIPALITY’S NEW LAND USE SCHEME?
The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality has introduced a new Land Use Scheme, which replaced the previous 12 zoning schemes. Over the years the city has grown adding new suburbs and absorbing the areas that were under the former Western District Council. Then Uitenhage and Dispatch were incorporated. These areas all had their own zoning schemes.
The municipality has now introduced the new Land Use Scheme, to standardise the property development in the city. All future use of and improvements to fixed property will be evaluated using the new scheme, which is designed to guide the growth and development of the city in a sustainable and orderly manner.
With the new scheme, property owners won’t lose approved rights. If consent was granted in the past, it remains valid. One principal is to allow denser development, rather than urban sprawl. Municipalities struggle to maintain existing services and providing services to new neighbourhoods is unaffordable.
For residential property owners, generally the new land use scheme is less restrictive. Building lines have been eased and the height restriction increased. A second and third dwelling can be considered without neighbours’ approval.
Owners of properties zoned for business, should check the new scheme. There have been some changes which could impact on the future development of their property.
Note, the Town Planning and Building Plan application processes must be adhered to. Owners can’t proceed without the appropriate approval. Consult a property professional for advice, before proceeding with alterations or additions to a property.
Property owners who would like advice regarding the new Land Use Scheme can contact Stephen Knott Architects.
