118 opponents summoned to the same hour: the claims against the hearing on Tel Aviv's master plan

Tel Aviv's new master plan, TA/5500, is sparking sharp controversy over the management of the objections hearing. Attorney Ron Tzin claims that 118 opponents were summoned to the same hour, and some left without being heard. Over 500 objections have been filed against the plan, which includes adding about 50,000 housing units by 2035.

Tel Aviv-Jaffa's new municipal master plan, TA/5500, has reached the stage of hearing objections, drawing sharp criticism over the management of the proceedings. Attorney Ron Tzin of the Arnon, Tadmor-Levy firm wrote to the chair of the Tel Aviv Local Planning and Building Committee, claiming that in the hearing on objections related to the northern part of the city, 118 opponents were summoned to the same hour, and some waited for hours before leaving without having a chance to present their arguments. The plan aims to update the existing master plan TA/5000 and includes adding about 50,000 housing units by 2035 for a population of about 600,000 residents. Over 500 objections have been filed. The hearings began on November 3, and on the second day, November 4, objections concerning the northern part of the city were heard. Attorney Tzin argues that the format harmed the right to a hearing and equality among opponents, and requests that those who did not get to present their arguments be summoned again. The Planning Committee of the Israel Bar Association and the Appraisers' Chamber also criticized the hearing format.