The Methodist Church in Borrowdale is at the centre of a dispute with local residents after reportedly resuming construction on land deemed unauthorised and defying a 2023 High Court order that halted further development.
Residents claim the court ruling prohibited expansion due to the lack of essential facilities, including parking spaces and toilets, as well as concerns over littering by churchgoers.
“The project was stopped because there are no car parks or toilets, and the area becomes littered after services. One resident expressed shock that the church is proceeding without our consent.
A city council official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed the church had bypassed the necessary approval processes and that the land is not zoned for religious use.
“We ignored the required procedures for land use and development.” This land is not designated for church activities,” the official explained.
ALSO READ: Mafume Responds to Address Mix-Up, Reasserts Transparency and Accountability
Attempts to reach Methodist Church representatives for comment were unsuccessful, as the church secretary, Mrs. Gatsi, did not respond to enquiries.
Adding to the controversy, an anonymous source alleged the church is relying on fraudulent documents to justify its construction.
“They lack a development permit from the council,” the source claimed.
The issue has escalated tensions in the upmarket Borrowdale suburb, with residents urging authorities to enforce the High Court order and halt the construction.
Whether city officials will intervene is unclear, leaving the dispute unresolved and fuelling frustration among affected residents.
