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Grove End in Phoenix
Residents in Phoenix, north of Durban, have expressed dissatisfaction with proposed electricity tariff increases, property valuations and ongoing service delivery challenges during a public consultation on the eThekwini Municipality’s draft 2025/26 budget.
The hearing took place at the Stonebridge Community Hall last week, as part of the municipality’s mandatory public engagement process. The draft budget proposes a 12.72% electricity increase for both residential and business consumers. This is higher than Eskom’s 11.32% increase, with the additional 1.4% attributed to the municipality.
IFP Councillor in Phoenix Dr Jonathan Annipen says there was a noticeable turnout at the meeting.
“We had a significant number of residents who came out to that hearing, albeit it was still disappointing that many of the communities within the venue did not show up. We had a large number of politicians and political parties represented and we also got ratepayer associations present. They made a significant contribution to the dialogue on the day. Those who were [there] and requested to ask a question or make a comment.”
Residents also raised concerns over what they believe are unfair property valuations and the perceived lack of basic municipal services in the area.
The feedback from the hearing will form part of the city’s consideration before finalising the budget.
