NEMA opens public comment on 25-storey Westlands apartment tower
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Kenya's environment authority has invited public comments within 30 days on an EIA report for a 25-storey, 464-unit residential tower proposed by Flourish Haven Limited on Ring Road in Westlands, Nairobi.
The government has invited the public to submit views on a proposed 25-storey residential apartment tower in Westlands, Nairobi, expected to include 464 housing units, swimming pools and other recreational facilities, The Kenya Times reported.
In a Gazette Notice dated November 6, the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) invited residents and other interested parties to comment on the project's Environmental Impact Assessment study report within 30 days, pursuant to section 59 of the Environmental Management and Coordination Act. The development, proposed by Flourish Haven Limited, will be located along Ring Road in Westlands on land identified as Nairobi/Block 4/238.
The project will comprise two basement levels, a ground floor and 25 upper floors, with apartments ranging from one-bedroom units to a penthouse. According to the notice, it will have 243 one-bedroom apartments, 154 two-bedroom units, 66 three-bedroom apartments and one penthouse, along with 284 parking spaces, children's play areas, swimming pools, gardens and sitting areas.
The EIA report lists concerns that may arise during construction and after completion, including soil erosion, loss of vegetation, air and noise pollution, increased water consumption, waste generation and traffic disruption, as well as fire risks, insecurity, occupational health and safety issues and the project's potential contribution to climate change. The developer has proposed mitigation measures and a grievance redress mechanism through which neighbouring residents can raise complaints during the project.
NEMA has given the public 30 days from publication of the November 6 notice to submit comments in writing or orally to the Director-General, with an email address provided for electronic submissions. The full report is available for inspection at NEMA headquarters on Popo Road, off Mombasa Road, and at the Nairobi City County Director of Environment's office. All submissions should quote reference number NEMA/ENVIS/SR/00802.