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HCC resolves to sell part of Harare Gardens

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HARARE City Council has resolved to sell part of the Harare Gardens to hotel and leisure group, African Sun, for the construction of a state-of-the-art conference centre.

HARARE City Council has resolved to sell part of the Harare Gardens to hotel and leisure group, African Sun, for the construction of a state-of-the-art conference centre.

XOLISANI NCUBE

Harare mayor, Bernard Manyenyeni
Harare mayor, Bernard Manyenyeni

The matter, which has been on the agenda for over four months, had to be decided by a vote as some councillors opposed the idea, arguing the park had a sentimental value and could not be sold to a private developer.

After heated debate, mayor Bernard Manyenyeni divided the house and called for a vote, to which 18 voted for and 14 against.

African Sun Limited said it planned to spend $25 million to expand Crowne Plaza Monomotapa Hotel.

“If we really want Harare to be a world class city by 2025, we will only have less than 10 buildings left by then. Most buildings will not survive the status. We need such kind of development,” Manyenyeni said as he rallied his troops to accept the project which should be completed in 18 months’ time.

But Mabvuku councillor Munyaradzi Kufahakutizwi, together his Dzivaresekwa counterpart Girisoti Mandere, objected to the sale of the land, alleging the move would deprive the residents access to the recreational facility.

“This is not good for our residents, to be honest your worship. I am against this sale,” Mandere argued.

Council, which is battling to pay its workers, will pocket $1,76 million from the deal, as it will sell the land at $80 per square metre.

“The Africa Sun (Pvt) Ltd undertakes to meet the costs of maintaining Harare Gardens and related costs,” resolved the local authority.