Housing units approved for Druze settlement amid nationality law protest 

The Knesset's Interior Committee approved an amendment today that paves the way for the advancement of two expansive projects in the Druze settlement of Dalit El Carmel. This amendment allows for the immediate issuance of building permits.

The timing of these projects aligns with mounting pressure to amend the Nationality Law in order to recognize the rights of the Druze minority. The plans entail the construction of thousands of housing units, as well as commercial and leisure areas. 

One of the plans involves the establishment of a new residential neighborhood called "El Randa" on a sprawling area of approximately 63 hectares (155 acres). This neighborhood will be situated in the western part of the settlement, requiring the demolition of a nature reserve. Notably, this is the first plan in Druze settlements that takes into account the housing preferences of Druze society and incorporates the consolidation and allocation of private lands. 

The plan, initiated by the planning administration, outlines the construction of around 3,200 housing units at a density of 80 units per hectare. These units will be housed in four to five-story residential buildings, some of which will include integrated commercial facades.

Furthermore, the plan aims to address both the neighborhood's needs as well as the settlement's requirements by providing primary and elementary education facilities that cater to the neighborhood and its neighboring areas. 

The plan places strong emphasis on preserving open areas, natural values, and the distinctive landscape of the region. It includes measures to safeguard the wadis within its boundaries and establish connections with surrounding wadis and the national park.

The majority of the plan encompasses privately owned land and underwent an exhaustive and comprehensive public participation process, which involved examining and adjusting the plot sizes to align with the owners' specifications. The plan received approval from the Haifa District Planning and Construction Committee as early as September 2022.

Additionally, the committee has endorsed the new residential plan called "Khalat Nasser," spanning an area of approximately 20.7 hectares (51 acres). This plan encompasses the construction of 1,000 new housing units in four-story buildings. It is a plan that strives for integration and cohesion with the existing neighborhoods in the southern part of the settlement. Promoted by the Planning Administration Division, it encompasses public buildings, commercial areas, and spaces dedicated to sports, leisure, and recreation.

Rafi Elmaleh, Director General of the Planning Administration, expressed his satisfaction with the committee's decision, stating, "Congratulations to the Interior Committee and its chairman, MK Yaakov Asher, on this decision. It will enable the promotion and approval of crucial plans for the development of the Dalit El Carmel settlement.

"These plans will significantly enhance the settlement's growth, expand development areas, and provide solutions for future generations," he said. "Emphasizing infrastructure improvements and maintaining open spaces surrounding the settlements, these plans contribute to their overall enhancement."