Residents of Montclair in Durban have strongly opposed the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) government’s decision to integrate flood victims into their community by purchasing the Montclair Lodge for R33 million.
The provincial Department of Human Settlements acquired the property from Transnet as part of its disaster relief efforts, aiming to provide emergency accommodation for those displaced by heavy rainfall and flooding. However, the move has sparked backlash from locals, who fear a potential increase in crime and strain on infrastructure.
Community Concerns Over Crime and Services
Montclair residents argue that the area already faces high crime rates and insufficient service delivery, warning that an influx of flood victims could worsen the situation.
“Crime in our area is quite high, and we are working with SAPS to combat it. There is concern that bringing in more people could lead to another spike in crime—it has happened before when flood victims were placed here,” said one resident.
Others raised concerns about overburdened infrastructure, questioning why the government did not consider alternative locations, such as vacant buildings in the Durban CBD.
*”There are numerous boarded-up, government-owned buildings in the CBD. Why not invest a fraction of R33 million to renovate those instead?”* a resident suggested, citing the old post office as an example of an underutilized property.
Government Defends Decision, Cites Climate Preparedness
The KZN Department of Human Settlements maintains that the lodge’s purchase is a necessary step in disaster preparedness, particularly as the province braces for more extreme weather.
“We want to save this building to strengthen our response to climate change. With prolonged rainfall and flooding becoming more frequent, we need facilities like this to assist families in distress,” a department spokesperson said.
The lodge, which has a capacity of 600 people across 268 rooms, is set to be refurbished, with some flood victims possibly moving in by year-end. Officials also argue that the purchase will prevent vandalism and provide a long-term solution for emergency housing.
Residents Propose Alternatives
While some community members remain opposed, others suggest that proper vetting of flood victims could ease tensions.
“If the department ensures proper screening, some residents might be more accepting. There are also struggling families in Montclair who could benefit from affordable housing in the lodge,” said another local.
Despite the government’s assurances, the dispute highlights ongoing tensions between disaster relief efforts and community concerns over safety and resources.
As the debate continues, the KZN Human Settlements Department insists the move is critical for future flood responses, while Montclair residents demand greater consultation and alternative solutions.
