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Victor Maphosa-Mashonaland East Bureau

AN attempt by a company called Swandev to get Marondera Municipality off Elmswood land in the High Court has failed.

The council can now start servicing and allocating residential plots.

In a statement on Wednesday, the municipality said Swandev withdrew the case with costs, adding that the latest move allows the municipality to legally proceed with allocating residential stands on the land.

“The Municipality of Marondera wishes to inform residents and stakeholders about the outcome of the spoliation order lodged by Swandev with the High Court of Zimbabwe regarding the Elmswood stands.

“Swandev officially withdrew the spoliation order application with costs, allowing the council to proceed with the allocation and servicing of the Elmswood residential stands without any legal challenge.

“The Elmswood stands have already been surveyed to title and the council possesses all the relevant documentation. Currently, the council is servicing the Elmswood residential stands by opening up roads,” reads the statement.

“Beneficiaries of the Elmswood housing project are urged to remain patient as council implements the phased allocation of the residential stands. To date, stands are being allocated to beneficiaries who have received offer letters and have met the 30 percent payment threshold. The deadline for meeting this payment threshold is November 30.

“Council will allocate stands to all beneficiaries who fulfil their payment obligations, ensuring that no one is prejudiced.”

Elmswood land was wholly owned by Marondera Municipality and no one else.

“The Municipality of Marondera would like to clarify that the Elmswood land is wholly owned by council and no part of Elmswood land is owned by any other private developer or entity. Therefore, there is no joint ownership of the Elmswood land.

“Only the Marondera Municipality has the legal authority to oversee the development, allocation, distribution and purchase of the Elmswood residential stands. No other entity has the legal right to receive payments or allocate and distribute Elmswood residential                   stands.

“Council will not be held liable for any losses that may accrue as a consequence of dealing with other parties or entities concerning the Elmswood residential stands.”

Council went on to encourage stakeholders in need of land to follow the proper procedures when seeking residential or commercial stands.