URRA Newsletter April 2026

The Guinea Fowl Are Back – A Step Forward for Umhlanga’s Biodiversity

In partnership with leading animal rehabilitation organisations across KwaZulu-Natal, we are proud to announce the successful reintroduction of Helmeted Guineafowl into the greater Umhlanga area.

This initiative forms part of a broader environmental restoration programme, aimed at re-establishing indigenous wildlife that has declined due to urbanisation, habitat loss, and historical trapping. Spanning from Beachwood Golf Course to the Umhlanga River, the project focuses on restoring ecological balance within a rapidly developing environment.

To date, 66 guinea fowl have been reintroduced across three carefully selected sites, with plans to grow the population to over 300 in the coming year. The programme has also supported the reintroduction and relocation of species such as the Spotted Eagle-Owl, Red and Blue Duiker, Spur-winged Goose, and various francolin, as well as the safe removal of indigenous snakes from high-risk areas.

This initiative is about preserving Umhlanga’s natural heritage for future generations, and residents are encouraged to support these efforts by remaining vigilant against illegal snares and participating in community conservation initiatives. Together, we can help protect and restore Umhlanga’s unique biodiversity.

Update: Approval of Gaming Facility at 4 Lagoon Drive

URRA would like to update members on a matter that has generated considerable discussion within the community—the recent approval of a gaming and entertainment facility at 4 Lagoon Drive, which includes 150 electronic bingo terminals and 30 limited payout machines.

URRA has received extensive feedback from residents regarding both the scale of the development and the process followed in granting approval. Concerns raised include increased pressure on traffic, parking, and local infrastructure, as well as the potential impact on Umhlanga’s character and property values within an already highly concentrated precinct.

We can confirm that URRA has formally lodged an appeal against the decision and is currently engaging legal support to strengthen this process. The approval granted relates to a rezoning application, allowing the bingo lounge to occupy the premises. As part of the appeal, URRA has requested full transparency on the process followed, including access to all relevant documentation, how objections were recorded and considered, and how the final decision was reached.

We appreciate the continued support of our members as we work to ensure that development decisions remain appropriate, transparent, and aligned with the long-term interests of the Umhlanga community. Further updates will be shared as the appeal progresses.

Proposed Tariff Increases – URRA to Represent Residents

URRA would like to update members on the latest proposed municipal tariff increases, which are due to be presented to full council. Once this stage is complete, the proposals will be released for public comment, providing an important opportunity for community input.

The proposed increases are:

Electricity: 10.5%

Water: 16%

Sanitation: 14%

Waste Removal: 13%

URRA remains concerned that these increases are consistently higher than those in many other municipalities, placing additional strain on households and businesses within eThekwini.

As in previous years, we will participate in the consultation process to formally object to these increases and to represent the interests of Umhlanga residents and ratepayers.

We encourage members to stay informed and to make submissions during the public comment period once it opens.

URRA will continue to engage on your behalf and provide updates as the process unfolds.

Thank You for Your Support – URRA Membership Update

A sincere thank you to all members who have already paid their URRA subscriptions. Your ongoing support allows us to continue representing the interests of Umhlanga residents and ratepayers, and to engage meaningfully on issues such as service delivery, infrastructure, environmental concerns, and community safety.

If you have not yet renewed or joined, we encourage you to do so. Membership strengthens our collective voice when engaging with the Municipality, SAPS, Metro Police, and other key stakeholders.

As a member, you receive:

Representation and advocacy on matters affecting your property and quality of life

Regular updates via our newsletter and WhatsApp community

Access to structured reporting and engagement channels

The benefit of being part of a unified, proactive community

Your contribution directly supports the work we do on behalf of Umhlanga.

 Please renew or join via our website or contact admin@urra.co.za

Together, we can continue to build a well-managed and accountable community.