David Larsen
The last undeveloped estuary on South Africa’s east coast could be ruined by a multi-million dollar hotel development, says the National Environmental Action Group.
Durban-based developer Crane Africa, in partnership with Singapore-based Aman Resort Group, has proposed a 100-bed hotel on the dune above the Kosi Bay mouth.
“The mouth is rated foremost among KwaZulu- Natal’s estuaries in terms of its conservation potential. It should be regarded as one system in the province that should, without doubt, be preserved,” says Garth Lee, representative of the National Environmental Action Group.
Kosi Bay’s ecological importance was recognised by the international community when it was proclaimed a Ramsar site in June 1991. “There is an international obligation to uphold its position as a high-priority conservation area,” adds Lee.
While the Lubombo Spatial Development Initiative is increasing access along the Zululand coast through the upgrading of roads, the action group proposes Kosi Bay should be proclaimed one of the “sacred sites” where no development is allowed, as has happened at various sites along the KwaZulu-Natal south coast.
The developer, Jeffrey Crane, says in defence that he was not responsible for choosing the site in the first place. “It was the old KwaZulu Bureau of Natural Resources which identified the site as having already been severely disturbed. What people are worrying about is the visual impact. It is unrealistic to expect a development on the top of a prominent hill to be out of sight, but it won’t affect people as much as they think.”
Says Lee: “One hundred beds will mean the building will be enormous, if one considers en-suite bathrooms, restaurant facilities, swimming pool and parking lots for 50 or more cars.”
Crane’s plans have been accepted by the provincial Department of Traditional Affairs and Environmental Affairs and the KwaZulu- Natal Conservation Service, subject to the implementation of a comprehensive environmental plan.
ENDS