Bulawayo City Council (BCC) has warned residents against purported sales of residential stands linked to a so-called “Smart City” development in Cowdray Park, saying no subdivision or development permit has been issued for the project.
The warning comes amid social media posts and other communications circulating about the alleged development, with the local authority urging members of the public to verify such claims before making payments or entering into property agreements.
In a public notice, Town Clerk Christopher Dube said the council had noted the circulation of information about the purported development with concern.
“The City of Bulawayo would like to advise members of the public that it has noted, with concern, a number of ill-informed social media posts and communication circulating about an alleged ‘Smart City’ development purported to take place in Cowdray Park, including claims about the sale of residential stands,” Dube said.
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He said Cowdray Park Township, Norwood Township, Richmond and parts of Helenvale Block fall under the jurisdiction and administration of the City of Bulawayo.
“Accordingly, the City remains responsible for administering municipal services and for planning and development control within its jurisdiction, in accordance with applicable laws and regulations,” Dube said.
Dube said the council had not approved the purported development.
“The City further wishes to inform the public that, as at the date of this statement, the City has not issued any subdivision or development permit for the purported ‘Smart City’ development,” he said.
He urged residents to exercise caution when dealing with individuals or organisations offering stands linked to the alleged development.
“Members of the public should therefore exercise extreme caution when engaging with individuals or entities offering stands for sale or making representations about the purported development on Council Land or Private Land without the necessary approvals,” Dube said.
The council also said it was continuing to safeguard property and related information within its jurisdiction in line with applicable legislation.
“The City continues to administer and safeguard property and related information within its jurisdiction in accordance with applicable legislation, including the Cyber and Data Protection Act and other relevant laws governing the administration and protection of Municipal and property information,” Dube said.
Residents were encouraged to approach the council directly to establish whether claims relating to municipal land, subdivisions, development permits, stand allocations or property transactions were legitimate.
“Members of the public are encouraged to verify any claims regarding municipal land, subdivisions, development permits, stand allocations or property transactions directly with the City before making payments or entering into any agreements,” Dube said.
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