A PROPOSAL to develop the farm Ongegund in Simondium as an exclusive residential area has been refused by the Department of Environmental Affairs and Planning.
The farm is located on the west bank of the Berg River opposite Pearl Valley.
Following an environmental impact study, the Department has approved proposals to develop a guesthouse in the existing main farmhouse,as well as additional guest units, the upgrading of the labourers’ cottages, and a tourism node with a curio shop, tea room and restaurant.
The proposal for a residential development along the river bank and around the existing dam, was, however, refused.
Ongegund is located outside the new extended urban edge proposed by the Drakenstein Municipality to allow for residential development between Paarl and Simondium.
* The same department has refused approval for the development of a second golf course at Pearl Valley on environmental grounds.
The second phase is located within the approved urban edge of Paarl.
The developer, supported by the Municipality, is to appeal to the Minister of Environmental Affairs, to reverse the decision.
According to the acting head of planning, David Delaney, the second golf course would mean a boost for the development of Paarl, especially as the developer has linked funding for sub-economic housing to approval of this second phase.
* An environmental impact study is being undertaken by Total Impact to study the proposal to develop parts of Boschendal.
The proposal includes a 240 room hotel, 500 tourism and residential units, 500 retirement units and a commercial node at the old station site. The station node proposal includes a “Red Shed” manufacturing centre and 150 residential units.
To register as an interested or affected person, contact Natalie Ritsch at natalie@dougjeff.co.za or tel 021-875-5272.
