The effectiveness of the public participation process in the rezoning proce

ID: 1766

Presenting Author: Zinhle Dlamini

Session: 758 - Reframing Impact Assessment Narratives in Africa: Combating Misinformation, Power Asymmetries, and Distrust in Development

Status: pending


Summary Statement

The public participation has been identified as being flawed, with communities arguing that there was a lack of consultation while the park is being praised for it's sustainability efforts.


Abstract

The EIA process for the Clairwood Racecourse development involved standard steps like screening, scoping, and impact assessment, but was complicated by challenges including inadequate mitigation for biodiversity loss, a flawed public participation process, and significant concerns about increased pollution and traffic from the logistics park. Community groups argued that the environmental assessments downplayed the ecological damage, the proposed "green lung" was too small, and the negative health and social costs to nearby communities were not adequately addressed.


Author Bio

Deputy Head: Biodiversity Management in eThekwini Municipality
MSc in Environmental Management
Registered EAP, Pr. Nat. Sci
Grade 1: EMI


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