Development Near Robberg Peninsula Faces Objections
Tensions are still high over a significant project planned for a pristine location next to the Robberg Corridor, involving Ballywood Properties, where former Springbok player Schalk Burger holds a director position.
Ballywood acquired the land in September of last year following the death of the previous owner, Russel Stevens. The proposed development is situated near Plettenberg Bay Airport, along the coastline adjacent to the Robberg Peninsula.
While no financial details have been disclosed about the development on erf 8010 and an additional portion of land, 76, controversy is brewing.
Controversial Development in Robberg Corridor Sparks Environmental Concerns
‘Flawed Process’
Local landowners are voicing concerns over what they deem a flawed public participation process regarding the development. Shaun Seeliger, another director at Ballywood, insists that the application has undergone the required public consultation, with responses to comments and objections submitted by the company.
“The appointed case officer from Bitou Municipality now needs to compile an assessment report for the Planning Tribunal to evaluate the application,” Seeliger stated.
‘Informed by Email’
Tom Borman, a neighbor, highlighted that the application for rezoning and subdivision was minimally advertised in a local publication, Hello Plett, while adjacent property owners were only notified via email in March. Borman has lodged numerous objections, arguing that the development would directly affect him, including rerouting power lines across his land and impacting a servitude that runs through his property to one of the proposed sites.
‘Act Not Adhered To’
Borman claims that the application process with Bitou Municipality has significant flaws, asserting that elements of the National Environmental Management Act have not been properly followed.
The proposed development has also sparked concern among conservationists, particularly since billionaire Johann Rupert provided the initial funding to Burger for the project. Environmental groups, including the Robberg Coastal Corridor Protected Environment (RCCPE), have expressed strong opposition.
Dr. Morkel Pienaar, chairman of the RCCPE, commented, “We appreciate the Sunday Times for bringing this issue to public attention.”
‘Impact Studies’
Pienaar emphasized that the procedural shortcomings and the absence of comprehensive environmental impact assessments, as mandated by law, are significant issues. He also raised objections regarding the scale of the proposed development, questioning its compatibility with the character of the surrounding protected environment, which is known for its natural beauty.
“The application process is still underway, and we await responses from the municipality and the developers concerning our objections. Environmental impact studies must be completed before any application can be taken into consideration. We did voice our concerns about the rezoning and subdivision being published in Hello Plett, but I cannot comment on the reasons behind that decision.”
‘Objections Based on Planning, Environmental Law’
This situation has garnered additional scrutiny due to the high-profile figures involved, namely Johann Rupert and Schalk Burger. However, Pienaar asserts that the RCCPE’s objections are based solely on planning and environmental law.
“As stewards of this critical wildlife corridor and the guardians of this protected environment, it is our duty to oppose any development that may harm the Corridor and its wildlife, many of which are endangered,” Pienaar added.
Ballywood asserts that its plans aim to preserve significant portions of the natural landscape, with 40 hectares of the total 74 hectares slated for protection in collaboration with Cape Nature.
‘Design Creates a Buffer’
Seeliger noted that the development has been carefully planned to respect existing vegetation and the proximity to protected areas, proposing larger “conservation-type” properties that would allow natural vegetation to flourish around the homes.
“This design establishes a buffer between the denser development to the north and the protected environment to the south, fostering ecological balance,” he explained.
Seeliger highlighted that erf 8010 had been designated as a strategic development area within the urban boundary of the Bitou Municipality’s spatial development framework long before the current owners took possession.
‘Mixed-Use Development’
The project will involve rezoning and subdividing the land to create a mixed-use development that encompasses 122 group housing units, 132 apartments, a commercial zone, 10 recreational erven, and 18 private nature conservation erven (Eco-Holdings). This will be complemented by infrastructure upgrades, including eight private roads and one public street.
Additionally, the expansion of an existing guest lodge on portion 76 of the Farm Brakkloof No 443 will involve rezoning a 6,775 square meter area for a boutique hotel and adding six suites, raising height restrictions from 8.5 meters to 14 meters. Notably, this expansion will occupy only 17% of the property, with the remaining 83% being preserved in partnership with CapeNature.
“The vertical expansion will retain the original footprint, thus minimizing any negative environmental impacts or alterations to the area’s character,” Seeliger remarked. “The Protected Environment, established by the new owner, conserves 40 hectares of the 74-hectare parcel, showcasing a commitment to environmentally responsible land management.”
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