Big plans for GR Dam elicit deep public concern
The Garden Route Action Group (Gardag) is among those who are concerned over the impact of the proposed university precinct development at the Garden Route Dam. George Municipality is in the process of rezoning the land (remainder of erf 464) to allow for a commercial waterfront, residential and tertiary educational development.
The cut-off date for comment on the preapplication draft scoping report by Sharples Environmental Services (SES), that is doing the environmental impact assessment, has been extended from 20 July to 21 August. In its comment submitted to SES, Gardag says the development will place additional strain on water resources on top of seven other planned developments (the Crocodile Farm, land adjacent to Mount View, King George social housing development, Horse Riding Club land near the mall, Groenkloof expansions, future expansion of Kraaibosch, and housing at Pacaltsdorp).
Also, George Municipality has indicated that it will have to cut its budget by R80million because of the economic climate and Covid-19, which will aggravate existing budgetary constraints on bulk services maintenance.
Sewage leakages into the Kat River, one of the rivers feeding the dam, give the impression that the municipality is not able to maintain present sewer networks, “let alone a brand new one at the Garden Route Dam”.
“Aquatic experts have warned about the poor river health. SES’ own aquatic expert refers to the presence of sewage in the Kat River and has given it a D and F rating,” reads Gardag’s statement. “The risk of pollution is significantly increased by allowing the commercial component to be constructed right on the dam without a buffer riparian zone. Studies by NMU have also shown dire predictions about how soon the city will run out of water at the current growth rate. The Breede-Gouritz Water Management Agency (BGCMA) also wants a review of water availability in the region done, based on existing information that takes the current harsh economic realities into consideration.
They say that the current water supply situation in the Garden Route area is critical as a result of severe droughts.”
Concerns to be addressed
Betsy Ditcham of SES said that there are a number of opportunities for interested and affected parties (I&APs) to comment on the proposal. “A large amount of time and effort have gone into preparing the proposal and reports and investigating the impacts of the proposal on the receiving environment, and we want those who may have comments to raise their issues of concern in order for us to address them in a comprehensive manner.” The George Municipality issued a statement saying that “several misleading rumours and distorted information” are being circulated regarding the development proposals. The site has been earmarked for urban expansion since the adoption of the municipal spatial development framework in 2013.
The rezoning and subdivision application is based on the consolidated findings of extensive specialist studies and will contribute to the sustainable development model of the municipality. The municipality lists various benefits, including enhanced access to tertiary education, new employment opportunities and economic stimulus.
Also read a letter on the proposed development on the letters pages.- Ed
They say that the current water supply situation in the Garden Route area is critical as a result of severe droughts.