‘GREEN LUNG’ DEFIED BY DEVELOPMENT

I AM approaching 75 years of age and therefore do not have a long term personal agenda with regard to the proposed development of the subject area other than concern for the future of the city and its citizens.

I object to the proposed development. I agree that there is a general need to bring people closer to their workplaces/amenities, etc.

Swathes of land in the Woodstock/Salt River area is used for storage and shunting of Transnet derelict equipment. Lots of land is wasted in the hands of the SANDF, eg Wingfield/Youngsfield.

A case for expropriation without compensation?

Move these things into the Cape Flats and bring the people inwards.

Densification needs infrastructural support.

When last was a bridge built over the rivers/railway line of the southern suburbs yet developers have made hay without contributing to an infrastructure fund (poor Belmont Bridge).

None of the great cities of the world would let this happen.

They have made their river areas into parklands for communal usage and enjoyment.

This type of development goes against the grain of “green lung”, beauty and attraction of the city’s residents and visitors.

The subject area houses the only remaining mashie (small) golf course on the Peninsula. (Mupine golf course, outside Pinelands – opposite the derelict Conradie site and near the forlorn remains of sports facilities at Sunrise Circle – was closed for housing development in April.

Youth golf training is losing a base.

Yet we worry about the young having no other outlet than to join gangs and get involved in drugs.

Does development come before the youth and the character of our potentially lovely city? Rant over. GUY NICOL | Rondebosch