Work under way on housing project

AFTER years of waiting, the Aquadene housing project in Richards Bay is now making headway with groundwork at the site in full swing.

The uMhlathuze Municipality called a public meeting on Tuesday afternoon in Ward 26 to introduce Leomat Construction as the contractor for the bulk storm water line.

The project is expected to be completed by November next year.

The company confirmed they would be employing workers from the community.

Community members raised concerns that only labourers would be employed while there are skilled workers and professionals available in the area.

They also raised their disappointment that public meetings were always held early in the day when working community members could not attend.

The rate at which labourers are paid under the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) also came under the spotlight, but Leomat’s Matteo Mattioda confirmed that fixed contracts had already been signed and no changes could be made.

The housing development will cater for 1 500 rental units and 650 low cost houses and the application process will be open to all residents in the city.

Those who are already homeowners or benefitted from a previous housing development, will not qualify.