Glen Lorne Development Halted Over Umwinsi River Concerns

• Residents in Glen Lorne have appealed to the Minister of Local Government and Public Works to halt activities at a disputed cluster housing development.
• The project, proposed by Zhuomu International (Pvt) Ltd, involves constructing 89 units on Stand 4717, but residents have raised objections citing environmental fears.
• Government officials directed the developer to halt work pending resolution of outstanding issues, but the project has continued with earthworks and other activities near the Umwinsi River.

Residents argue that irreversible environmental harm could result from the development's continued progress.

A cluster housing development in Glen Lorne has been at the centre of controversy due to concerns over its impact on the Umwinsi River's water resources. The project, proposed by Zhuomu International (Pvt) Ltd, involves constructing 89 units on Stand 4717, but residents have raised objections citing environmental fears. A meeting was convened by Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe on August 3 to discuss the development, where government officials directed the developer to halt work pending resolution of outstanding issues. However, despite these directives, the project has continued with earthworks and other activities near the river. Residents have expressed concern that irreversible environmental harm could result from the development's continued progress.

The planning approval process for the development has been disputed by residents, who claim that work commenced before the process was concluded. A public notice issued by the City of Harare invited objections to an application for a permit to construct the cluster housing development, but residents argue that this notice was published after boreholes had already been drilled and indigenous trees cleared at the site. The Environmental Management Agency (EMA) has reportedly revoked the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) permit due to concerns over the integrity of the assessment process and the omission of residents' objections. This decision was made following a site meeting on July 10, where EMA Director General advised that the permit had been revoked for review.

The dispute surrounding the Glen Lorne development highlights concerns over water resource exploitation in areas with sensitive ecosystems. The Umwinsi River's reduced flow and potential for further environmental degradation have raised alarms among residents, who argue that the developer has disregarded government directives to halt work. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of compliance with regulations and the need for developers to consider the long-term consequences of their projects on local ecosystems.

Lawyers advising clients on real estate developments in Zimbabwe should be aware of the potential environmental liabilities and regulatory risks associated with water resource exploitation, particularly in areas with sensitive ecosystems like the Umwinsi River. Compliance officers may need to review their clients' permits and licenses to ensure they are up-to-date and compliant with relevant regulations.

Source: Original reporting via Disputed Glen Lorne development raises fears for Harare’s future water resources