Residents in Flagstaff, Suva, are voicing strong opposition to a proposed $87 million residential development known as the Nalagi Apartments, which is set to consist of 221 units across two nine-storey buildings. The controversy erupted during a recent consultation meeting where Adrienne Ali, a local barrister and solicitor, passionately criticized the plans, declaring, “This building will go up over my dead body and that goes for everybody who lives on that street!”
Ali raised significant concerns, highlighting the project’s impact on local employment and the environment, stating, “This is not designed for Fijians; it is not going to employ Fijians. It is just sheer destruction.” Her remarks reflect a broader community sentiment that this development could disrupt the well-being of the neighborhood and not provide the promised benefits to residents.
Previous meetings regarding similar developments have also sparked strong community reactions, such as those seen with the Great Han Residential Development, where issues related to environmental assessments and public consultations were heavily scrutinized. Local property owners, including Bipin Patel, have expressed fears that excavation and construction work could adversely affect their properties, calling for more transparency and adequate public input in the planning process.
Community members worry about the disturbances that construction might cause, including noise from late-night concrete pouring, which Ali argued would prevent residents from getting enough sleep. This sentiment resonated with attendees who called for better consultation protocols that genuinely involve the local populace and respect their concerns over such major developments.
There is potential hope amidst the opposition as discussions continue, with plans for another consultation organized by the project’s environmental consulting firm, Planit Pacific Pte Limited, suggesting avenues for more inclusive public engagement. This upcoming dialogue could pave the way for a project that balances community interests with development goals, fostering a more collaborative approach to urban planning in Suva.
This situation underscores the growing necessity for developers to engage with local communities proactively, ensuring that major projects not only meet investment goals but are aligned with the needs and values of the residents they impact.
Leave a comment