Epworth considers new residential area in Ward 1

Diana Nherera

Herald Reporter

EPWORTH Local Board town secretary, Dr Wilton Mhanda, has urged the board’s lands committee to inspect an area in Ward 1 that is believed to be suitable for residential settlement.

Ward 1 councillor Benjamin Furamera said the area is the third-highest point in Epworth and is not prone to flooding.

He said the land could accommodate more than 1 000 residents.

“Despite the floods that have occurred in Epworth over the years, this area has never been affected, so I believe it is suitable for people to live there,” said Cllr Furamera.

However, town planner Mr Noble Gakaka said the area is classified as a conservation site because it contains rock paintings.

“The conservation aspect is linked to tourism, similar to the balancing rocks,” he said.

Mr Dennis Muranduri from the Housing and Estates Department said some people have already settled in the area.