GERALDINE METTLER
MUNICIPAL MANAGER
The Stellenbosch Municipality is aware of challenges being experienced by applicants in the issuing of planning and land use applications. The process that plans have to follow from application to approval is generally a lengthy and time-consuming one, but many applicants have been waiting for far too long and we find this unacceptable.
That is why we are implementing a remedial action plan to address the backlog and accelerate the process.
Since last year, the Provincial Government has been assisting our Planning Department with appeals assessments. In addition to this, two Senior Planners will now be seconded from Province for 6 months to fast-track the processes in our Planning Offices.
We are also pleased to announce that a new Municipal Planning Tribunal (MPT) Board will commence with their duties on 1 July 2019. The vacancies for two permanent Senior Town Planners have also already been advertised and the positions will be filled before the end of June 2019.
As a Municipality that strives to provide efficient and effective services to the people that we serve, we apologise for any frustration experienced by applicants and commit ourselves to addressing these challenges head-on. We are confident that the steps taken will reduce the waiting period for building plans and ensure a more efficient experience.
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Media queries:
Stuart Grobbelaar T: 021 808 8172 | C: 084 036 1395
Mart-Marié Haasbroek T: 021 808 8024 | C: 072 910 3724
