URRA Newsletter August 2025

Victory for Umhlanga Residents –
Herrwood Drive Development Dispute

The Umhlanga Ratepayers & Residents Association (URRA) is pleased to announce a significant step forward in the ongoing Herrwood Drive development dispute. On 28 August 2025, the High Court of South Africa, KwaZulu-Natal Local Division, Durban, presided over by Justice Sibiya, granted an interim order in URRA’s application against Balwin Properties Limited and eThekwini Municipality.

In terms of this order, Balwin Properties and its contractors have agreed to halt excavation and reconstruction of private driveways along Herrwood Drive, between the Herrwood Circle and Mahogany Road intersection. This interim protection will remain in place until 31 October 2025 or until the application’s finalisation.

The court has also outlined a strict schedule:

⚫ Respondents must submit answering affidavits by 8 September 2025.

⚫ URRA’s replying affidavit is due 18 September 2025.

⚫ Heads of Argument must be filed by 23 September (URRA) and 26 September (Respondents).

⚫ A preferential hearing date may then be allocated.

This decision is an important safeguard for affected residents, ensuring property access and rights are protected while the matter is resolved. URRA sees this as a measured but meaningful victory for proper consultation, accountability, and lawful development practices.

We remain committed to protecting residents’ interests and advocating for transparent, responsible urban development in Umhlanga. Further updates will follow as this case progresses.

Meet Jacky Barrington – URRA Secretary

The Umhlanga Ratepayers and Residents Association (URRA) is delighted to welcome Jacky Barrington as our new Secretary. Jacky joined the URRA Committee at its inception in 2023, motivated by a passion for seeing Umhlanga thrive and a commitment to working alongside like-minded residents to bring positive change to our community.

With a deep appreciation for Umhlanga’s beauty and its wealth of talent, Jacky is dedicated to creating space for every resident to feel empowered and involved.

In her role as Secretary, she aims to bring structure and organisation to URRA’s initiatives, supporting the committee’s creativity and helping to deliver meaningful results.

Jacky’s focus is on fostering dialogue, encouraging collaboration, and ensuring residents’ voices are heard. Her leadership will strengthen URRA’s ability to tackle challenges, build connections, and champion a vibrant, well-managed community. We are excited to have her in this vital role!

AGM NOTICE

The Umhlanga Ratepayers’ & Residents’ Association (URRA) invites all members and residents to attend our Annual General Meeting on Monday, 8 September 2025, at The Capital Pearls.

Registration opens at 17:30, and the meeting will begin promptly at 18:30.

This is an important opportunity to stay informed, engage with community matters, and have your voice heard. We will present updates on key issues affecting Umhlanga, report on the year’s progress, and outline plans for the year ahead. The AGM also includes the election of committee members, and we encourage all members to participate.

Your involvement helps shape the future of our precinct. We look forward to seeing you there.

For enquiries, please contact admin@urra.org.za

Why Join the Ratepayer Movement?

The ratepayer movement unites residents and business owners who care about good governance and service delivery. By coming together, we promote accountability and help ensure Umhlanga is well-managed, safe, and sustainable.

Membership Options – Get Involved

✅ Household Membership – For just R50 per month, you can support the ongoing work to protect and uplift our area. If you live in a complex, check with your Body Corporate – many have already signed up.

✅ Corporate Membership – Business owners and decision-makers are encouraged to join as corporate members. It’s a direct and effective way to invest in a better Umhlanga for all.

Your participation strengthens our collective voice. Let’s keep Umhlanga a place we’re proud to call home.