New shopping centre planned for Mitchells Plain as residents share mixed feelings

A new shopping centre is being proposed for Mitchells Plain, sparking a mix of optimism and concern among local residents. The project, known as the Mitchells Plain Convenience Centre, involves the subdivision, rezoning, and development of three erven located at 2 Putney Avenue, 2 Sunbird Road, and 1 Sunbird Road in Rondevlei Park, Weltevreden Valley. These properties are privately owned and sit directly opposite Westgate Mall. While some see potential benefits such as job creation and economic growth, others have raised questions about the consultation process and possible impacts on the community. The application has drawn attention from local officials, including Sub-council 17 chairperson and Ward 43 councillor Elton Jansen, who addressed the proposal through a video posted on the sub-council’s WhatsApp channel. He clarified that the land is privately owned and that the owner has the legal right to submit a planning application to the City. Jansen emphasized that the application has not yet received approval and that the final decision rests with the Municipal Planning Tribunal. He added that councillors cannot prevent a property owner from submitting an application. Public input on the proposal is still open, with the deadline for comments set for the end of Monday, July 27. Jansen noted that the sub-council generally supports economic development and investment, believing the proposed development could generate employment opportunities. However, the process has not gone without scrutiny. Ward 75 councillor Joan Woodman mentioned that a traffic circle has been approved as part of traffic-calming measures aimed at addressing concerns over increased traffic in the area. Brenda King, chairperson of a newly formed ratepayers’ association, voiced concerns about the adequacy of resident notification regarding the application. She requested a public meeting before the process concludes and questioned whether the required public notice had been published in the appropriate newspaper, suggesting this might have influenced public awareness. In response, Jansen stated that information about the application and the necessary comment forms had been shared with residents. He also explained that a meeting had been offered to the association’s executive committee to clarify the planning process, though the invitation was ultimately declined. Eddie Andrews, Deputy Mayor and mayco member for spatial planning and environment, confirmed that the application remains under review and that no official stance has been taken by the City. He indicated that no further comment could be made at this time regarding the City’s support for the proposal. According to the Municipal Planning By-law, the application must be evaluated based on specific criteria before the Municipal Planning Tribunal can render its decision. Residents interested in providing feedback can submit their comments using the City’s designated form. The by-law mandates that all submissions be in writing and include the individual’s interest in the application along with reasons for either supporting or opposing it. Those wishing to present an oral submission during the tribunal hearing are encouraged to send a written request to [email protected] at least five business days prior to the relevant meeting. As the deadline approaches, the outcome of the application remains uncertain. The process highlights the ongoing tension between private development initiatives and community engagement, reflecting broader challenges faced by urban areas seeking to balance growth with local interests. The final decision by the Municipal Planning Tribunal will determine whether the new shopping centre moves forward, shaping the future of Mitchells Plain in the coming months.