New Durban harbour plan prompts public outcry
26 October 2007, 05:37
Durban water sport and community groups have voiced strong opposition to the latest version of the Point small craft harbour plans, with some groups calling for the scrapping of what they claim is an unworkable and profit-driven "concrete dream".A second group, made up of the Durban Ski Boat Club, Point Yacht Club and Durban Undersea Club, has adopted a more conciliatory approach to find a solution. However, members of this group appear to be having serious doubts about whether a compromise can be reached.The latest objections to the Point small craft harbour follow a recent public meeting at which the developers submitted revised proposals after it was advised to go back to the drawing board by the provincial Department of Agriculture and Environment Affairs.However, far from appeasing the concerns of objectors, the revised development plan - which now includes a 25-storey hotel in the middle of Vetch's Bay - appears to have sparked further opposition.In a written submission to the environmental impact assessment (EIA) consultants, veteran Durban surfer and boardsailor Mike Larmont complained that the Durban Point Development Company was so obsessed with making money that it had consistently ignored constructive counterproposals from local watersport clubs.Sailing KZN, an affiliate of the International Sailing Association, said its members recognised the need to upgrade the dilapidated sailing facilities at Vetch's Pier. The association said the upmarket yacht marina proposal would provide little more than a "pretty backdrop" for wealthy condominium owners, but do little to cater for the needs of the sailing community.Sean Fennessy, of the KZN Hobie Cat Association, said the cramped layout of the marina would turn sailing and launching into a management "nightmare", and increase the risk of boating collisions and injuries.Desmond D'Sa, chairperson of the South Durban Environmental Alliance, described the latest yacht marina plan as "an undisguised attempt to steal the heritage of Durban residents from under their noses".He said Vetch's Pier was a free and much-loved communal asset for Durban residents, but would become the exclusive preserve of the rich and famous.The Durban Ski Boat Club, Point Yacht Club and the Durban Undersea Club (under the umbrella of the Durban Point Watersports Club) also presented a joint submission containing 16 points of concern.Durban Ski Boat Club spokesman Eddie Lahee said the developers had responded on Wednesday with proposals that did not address several of the club's most serious concerns."Our approach was to find a workable solution so that we would not be pushed out of the water. We would still like to work in good faith towards finding a solution, but it's becoming a bit difficult." Lahee said the Durban watersports fraternity presently had access to nearly 28 000m2 of land at the Point, whereas at least 3 000 active members from several different clubs had now been offered less than 4 000m2 to build a joint "superclub", which they would have to finance themselves.Lahee estimated it would cost between R15 million to R20-million to build a new clubhouse, and members had asked the Durban Point Development Company (DPDC) whether they could facilitate a low-interest loan and a special concession on municipal rates to make the plan affordable.While the construction costs might be affordable for 3 000 members, there was concern that this would not be possible if 1 000 members opted out of paying for the superclub.The DPDC had proposed a multilevel boat-stacking system to save space, but ski boat club members did not believe it was a workable solution.The boating fraternity had also asked that the proposed slipway be enlarged from 20m to 75m, but the DPDC was offering a 40m-wide slipway.Larmont, representing the Boardsailing Club of Durban, accused the DPDC of ignoring constructive input and failing to investigate calls for an alternative site.Sailing KZN said the answer was to leave Vetch's pier and beach untouched - but to give watersport clubs a guarantee about their future, which would give them the financial incentive to upgrade and revitalise their "rundown and dilapidated" clubhouses.Invited to comment on the objections, project director Neels Brink responded: "How did you get hold of these submissions? I am not sure why you are calling me. You know how the EIA process works."
This article was originally published on page 1 of The Mercury on October 26, 2007
Friday, October 26, 2007
Monday, October 15, 2007
The Mercury 15 October 2007
Point concerns still not addressed
October 15, 2007 Edition 1
The public meeting, convened by the Durban Point Development Company (DPDC) on September 29 to inform the public of changes to the plans for the proposed small-craft harbour at Vetch's , was well attended by those who oppose the destruction of Vetch's Beach. Unfortunately, neither City Manager Michael Sutcliffe nor the DPDC's Neels Brink showed up.
The presentation failed to clarify any previously contentious issues. These include the fact that the developers maintain they have found loopholes that entitle them to ignore the draft Integrated Coastal Management Bill laws that prohibit the purchase of land below the high-water mark, and questions about the viability of the proposed combined watersports club.
One of the presenters provided hugely inaccurate statements about the developer's perception of the use of the beach. In their study they stated that no bathers swam off the beach to the south of Vetch's Pier!
New questions that remain unanswered are the wisdom of building a 25-storey hotel on an island at the foot of Vetch's reef, and the practicality of sailing craft operating in an area that will be covered with massive wind shadows formed by buildings and breakwaters.
Despite the fact that there is almost zero support among the boating community, and very real concerns that the rate-paying public are going to have to absorb massive costs, the city and the DPDC seem hellbent on trying to persuade both the public and authorities, that their plans have merit.
It is becoming increasingly obvious that environmental and social issues, and the public's interests, are being marginalised.
If the public allows this trend to continue, future access to Durban's natural treasures is in jeopardy.
The Water Rat
Durban
October 15, 2007 Edition 1
The public meeting, convened by the Durban Point Development Company (DPDC) on September 29 to inform the public of changes to the plans for the proposed small-craft harbour at Vetch's , was well attended by those who oppose the destruction of Vetch's Beach. Unfortunately, neither City Manager Michael Sutcliffe nor the DPDC's Neels Brink showed up.
The presentation failed to clarify any previously contentious issues. These include the fact that the developers maintain they have found loopholes that entitle them to ignore the draft Integrated Coastal Management Bill laws that prohibit the purchase of land below the high-water mark, and questions about the viability of the proposed combined watersports club.
One of the presenters provided hugely inaccurate statements about the developer's perception of the use of the beach. In their study they stated that no bathers swam off the beach to the south of Vetch's Pier!
New questions that remain unanswered are the wisdom of building a 25-storey hotel on an island at the foot of Vetch's reef, and the practicality of sailing craft operating in an area that will be covered with massive wind shadows formed by buildings and breakwaters.
Despite the fact that there is almost zero support among the boating community, and very real concerns that the rate-paying public are going to have to absorb massive costs, the city and the DPDC seem hellbent on trying to persuade both the public and authorities, that their plans have merit.
It is becoming increasingly obvious that environmental and social issues, and the public's interests, are being marginalised.
If the public allows this trend to continue, future access to Durban's natural treasures is in jeopardy.
The Water Rat
Durban
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
The Mercury & Vetch's
Point Developers Gamble With Ratepayers' Money
18 September, 2007 Mercury
The Durban Point Development Company's new plans for the small-craft harbour at Vetch's, as revealed in The Mercury on September 14, reveal a number of concerning issues. [ Full Story... ]
City's workings remain a mystery
14 September, 2007 Mercury
The workings of Durban's city management remain a mystery to the ratepaying public. Consider the following as an example: [ Full Story... ]
Deciding on the future of the Point
Greg Ardé 14 September, 2007 Mercury
There are conflicting views on building a signature waterfront, but only time will tell what is in the best interests of Durban ratepayers, writes Greg Arde [ Full Story... ]
Transnet Is Ignoring The Human Aspect
28 August, 2007 Mercury
I have read with interest recent articles in The Mercury about the development of Vetch's Pier. I wish to remind readers that this is not the only development with pure economic gain in mind. [ Full Story... ]
Don't let greed pillage Vetch's
17 August, 2007 Mercury
Having recently listened through a lengthy debate at the Point Yacht Club (PYC), I came to the conclusion that there is a need to refocus on the Y in PYC. [ Full Story... ]
Weighing up the Vetch's odds
13 August, 2007 Mercury
The Durban Point Development's Neels Brink was quoted as saying that he believed three issues needed to considered equally in any development: the social, the environmental and the economic "Pledge to break EIA logjam" (The Mercury, August 8). [ Full Story... ]
Sandcastles on the slopes of a volcano
08 August, 2007 Mercury
Poor Pastor Ray McCauley seems to be caught somewhere between the devil and the deep blue sea. [ Full Story... ]
Vetch's Pier plan faces rethink
Tony Carnie 19 July, 2007 Mercury
THE controversial plan that will elbow out Durban's water-sports community from Vetch's Pier for a new yacht marina and commercial waterfront development has run into an obstacle. [ Full Story... ]
Durban needs bigger vision for a marina
29 May, 2007 Mercury
The Shosholoza campaign has highlighted two facts: [ Full Story... ]
Developers' Vetch's Proposal At Odds With Ocean Common Sense
24 April, 2007 Mercury
I refer to the article "Freak Waves Will Damage Yachts At Vetch's Pier" (The Mercury, April 12). [ Full Story... ]
We'll lose out both ways over Vetch's
17 April, 2007 Mercury
I have been following the debate surrounding the development plans for a small-craft harbour at Durban's Vetch's Beach for some time. [ Full Story... ]
Freak Waves Will Damage Yachts At Vetch's
16 April, 2007 Mercury
With reference to the article, "Freak waves won't damage yachts at Vetch's Pier" (The Mercury, April 12), where were the engineers on the afternoon of Monday March 19? [ Full Story... ]
'Freak waves won't damage yachts at Vetch's Pier'
12 April, 2007 Mercury
THE freak waves that battered the KwaZulu-Natal coastline last month have re-ignited "the battle for Vetch's Pier", with fears that the ferocious March 19 sea conditions would have pulverised any yachts in the controversial small craft harbour. [ Full Story... ]
Would Point harbour be used?
28 March, 2007 Mercury
Judging from the response in the press over the past few months, there doesn't seem to be too much public support for the proposed small-craft harbour at the Point. [ Full Story... ]
Beware the tides of March . . .
Tony Carnie 28 March, 2007 Mercury
BOY, what a week it has been! [ Full Story... ]
Storms underlined foolishness of Vetch's plan
27 March, 2007 Mercury
One thing is certain about the recent storm surge off the coast of KwaZulu-Natal - it will happen again. The only question is when. [ Full Story... ]
Developers, please take note
22 March, 2007 Mercury
I hope the developers of the proposed small craft harbour at Vetch's Pier are having some long walks along the Durban beachfront at this time. [ Full Story... ]
Developers continue to dice with nature
12 March, 2007 Mercury
The recent cyclonic swells illustrate only too well the obvious hazard of attempting to create a sea-facing small craft mooring in the Vetch's basin. [ Full Story... ]
Harbour at Vetch's will be impractical
09 March, 2007 Mercury
I have been involved in sailing for most of my life, having owned a variety of boats - including an ocean-going yacht - and I also love the Vetch's beach area and use it as well. [ Full Story... ]
Cyclonic conditions are proof enough
07 March, 2007 Mercury
With reference to the article "Durban is not Monaco or Dubai" (The Mercury, February 23): hopefully, all interested parties and developers of the small craft harbour have been enlightened by the sea conditions, as the effects of Cyclone Gamede were felt along our coastline. [ Full Story... ]
Legality of new marina questioned
Tony Carnie 06 March, 2007 Mercury
THE legality of the controversial yachting marina at Vetch's Pier in Durban has been cast into doubt, with reports that the developers have no authority to buy up a part of the sea to create luxury flats and a hotel resort. [ Full Story... ]
Sale Of Vetch's Beach Raises Legal Concerns
06 March, 2007 Mercury
The complexity of the situation surrounding Vetch's beach [ Full Story... ]
City ignores objections to Point project
01 March, 2007 Mercury
In the letter by J P Purshotum (The Mercury, February 14 ) he accused the municipality of not involving the public in the decision to build the new stadium. [ Full Story... ]
Durban is not Monaco or Dubai
23 February, 2007 Mercury
In The Mercury of January 25, Tony Carnie conducted an interview with Neels Brink, Project Director for the Durban Point Development Company. [ Full Story... ]
Anglers battling unkind conditions
23 February, 2007 Mercury
Weather patterns for anglers at this time of the year have been adverse, to say the least. [ Full Story... ]
Destroying Vetch's would be unfair to residents
16 February, 2007 Mercury
I wonder if the powers-that-be have ever swum at Vetch's Beach? Have they taken their elderly parents or young children there? [ Full Story... ]
Vetch's harbour site alternative
12 February, 2007 Mercury
The deadline for submissions for comments to the draft environmental impact assessment for the construction of a small craft harbour at Vetch's Beach passed on January 31. [ Full Story... ]
Vetch's Pier development will only benefit the affluent at the expense of the public
05 February, 2007 Mercury
I have lived in Durban for 50 years, regularly enjoying the recreational facilities of the port and beach. [ Full Story... ]
Boat owners don't want harbour at Vetch's
30 January, 2007 Mercury
Neels Brink's statements about the Point development (The Mercury, January 25) reveal the DPDC's real intentions for wanting to develop a small craft harbour on Vetch's Beach. Not only do they want the beach; they want to build out into the sea as well! [ Full Story... ]
Point needs a 'real waterfront'
25 January, 2007 Mercury
DURBAN'S much-vaunted Point Waterfront project would never become "a real waterfront" unless a new yachting marina and small craft harbour was built at Vetch's Pier. [ Full Story... ]
Many who are not club members use Vetch's Beach
24 January, 2007 Mercury
With the controversy regarding the Durban Point Development Company's desire to build a small craft harbour at Vetch's pier, I would like to make the following observations: [ Full Story... ]
Point developers' ignorance on display
23 January, 2007 Mercury
The letter by Rick Wilson, one of the developers of the Point area (The Mercury, January 19), demonstrates his ignorance of the Vetch's area. [ Full Story... ]
City Not Protecting The Interests Of Ratepayers
22 January, 2007 Mercury
I have been dealing with the relevant authorities regarding the preservation of the Vetch's Pier area for the use of the public in general and the watersports fraternity in particular for the past 17 years, in various capacities. [ Full Story... ]
New Harbour Will Open Beach To Many
19 January, 2007 Mercury
As a developer at the Point, I found the article which focused on the Point Waterfront Development and the proposed Yacht Mole Development (The Mercury January 12) somewhat one-sided. [ Full Story... ]
Point plans arouse passions
19 January, 2007 Mercury
The passions of many Durban residents are still running high over the latest Point Waterfront plans - although recent compromise deals may ensure reluctant support from surfers and other water sports groups. [ Full Story... ]
Have your say
18 January, 2007 Mercury
Retain Vetch's Pier for access to water sports for all and develop the Victoria Embankment. [ Full Story... ]
Waterfront Durban
Tony Carnie 12 January, 2007 Mercury
THE shape and character of maritime Durban is set to change dramatically - for better and for worse - as the city ponders the viability of two major waterfront development plans. [ Full Story... ]
Durban's double seafront projects
12 January, 2007 Mercury
The clock is ticking for the much-vaunted Point Waterfront development, where the latest "crown jewel" is being designed to lure a new wave of tourists and investors. [ Full Story... ]
Oppose Vetch's destruction
27 December, 2006 Mercury
It is common knowledge that the Durban Point Development Company intends destroying Vetch's Beach in order to build a small craft harbour... from The The Water Rat, Durban
Please clear rubble
08 May, 2006 Mercury
During July last year, eThekwini Municipal Manager Michael Sutcliffe allowed Portnet, or one of its contractors, to dump a massive amount of rubble on to the beach in front of the Paddle Ski Club at Vetch's Pier... writes 'Rat on the Rocks' from Durban [ Full Story... ]
No Teddy Bears' Picnic Down At South Beach
04 May, 2006 Mercury
The appalling state of South Beach, since the City Manager allowed Portnet to dump tons of rock and rubble on to it, has prompted me to pen this rhyme: [ Full Story... ]
Disconcerting silence on Vetch's Pier state
11 April, 2006 Mercury
When citizens of Durban criticise the municipality through the press, it usually does not take long for the authorities to respond and "set the record straight"... writes Johnny Vassilaros from Durban [ Full Story... ]
Sabotage behind beach rubble?
17 March, 2006 Mercury
There is something decidedly sinister about the condition of Vetch's Beach. What used to be an area with pristinely clean sand is now covered in rubble... from Disgusted of Durban. [ Full Story... ]
Point Is Not Really Suited To New Homes
12 September, 2005
Mercury
There is much hype surrounding the development at Durban's Point area. Flats are being built and canals dug. However, I am not at all convinced that the developer is on the right track... from Unconvinced of Durban. [ Full Story... ]
18 September, 2007 Mercury
The Durban Point Development Company's new plans for the small-craft harbour at Vetch's, as revealed in The Mercury on September 14, reveal a number of concerning issues. [ Full Story... ]
City's workings remain a mystery
14 September, 2007 Mercury
The workings of Durban's city management remain a mystery to the ratepaying public. Consider the following as an example: [ Full Story... ]
Deciding on the future of the Point
Greg Ardé 14 September, 2007 Mercury
There are conflicting views on building a signature waterfront, but only time will tell what is in the best interests of Durban ratepayers, writes Greg Arde [ Full Story... ]
Transnet Is Ignoring The Human Aspect
28 August, 2007 Mercury
I have read with interest recent articles in The Mercury about the development of Vetch's Pier. I wish to remind readers that this is not the only development with pure economic gain in mind. [ Full Story... ]
Don't let greed pillage Vetch's
17 August, 2007 Mercury
Having recently listened through a lengthy debate at the Point Yacht Club (PYC), I came to the conclusion that there is a need to refocus on the Y in PYC. [ Full Story... ]
Weighing up the Vetch's odds
13 August, 2007 Mercury
The Durban Point Development's Neels Brink was quoted as saying that he believed three issues needed to considered equally in any development: the social, the environmental and the economic "Pledge to break EIA logjam" (The Mercury, August 8). [ Full Story... ]
Sandcastles on the slopes of a volcano
08 August, 2007 Mercury
Poor Pastor Ray McCauley seems to be caught somewhere between the devil and the deep blue sea. [ Full Story... ]
Vetch's Pier plan faces rethink
Tony Carnie 19 July, 2007 Mercury
THE controversial plan that will elbow out Durban's water-sports community from Vetch's Pier for a new yacht marina and commercial waterfront development has run into an obstacle. [ Full Story... ]
Durban needs bigger vision for a marina
29 May, 2007 Mercury
The Shosholoza campaign has highlighted two facts: [ Full Story... ]
Developers' Vetch's Proposal At Odds With Ocean Common Sense
24 April, 2007 Mercury
I refer to the article "Freak Waves Will Damage Yachts At Vetch's Pier" (The Mercury, April 12). [ Full Story... ]
We'll lose out both ways over Vetch's
17 April, 2007 Mercury
I have been following the debate surrounding the development plans for a small-craft harbour at Durban's Vetch's Beach for some time. [ Full Story... ]
Freak Waves Will Damage Yachts At Vetch's
16 April, 2007 Mercury
With reference to the article, "Freak waves won't damage yachts at Vetch's Pier" (The Mercury, April 12), where were the engineers on the afternoon of Monday March 19? [ Full Story... ]
'Freak waves won't damage yachts at Vetch's Pier'
12 April, 2007 Mercury
THE freak waves that battered the KwaZulu-Natal coastline last month have re-ignited "the battle for Vetch's Pier", with fears that the ferocious March 19 sea conditions would have pulverised any yachts in the controversial small craft harbour. [ Full Story... ]
Would Point harbour be used?
28 March, 2007 Mercury
Judging from the response in the press over the past few months, there doesn't seem to be too much public support for the proposed small-craft harbour at the Point. [ Full Story... ]
Beware the tides of March . . .
Tony Carnie 28 March, 2007 Mercury
BOY, what a week it has been! [ Full Story... ]
Storms underlined foolishness of Vetch's plan
27 March, 2007 Mercury
One thing is certain about the recent storm surge off the coast of KwaZulu-Natal - it will happen again. The only question is when. [ Full Story... ]
Developers, please take note
22 March, 2007 Mercury
I hope the developers of the proposed small craft harbour at Vetch's Pier are having some long walks along the Durban beachfront at this time. [ Full Story... ]
Developers continue to dice with nature
12 March, 2007 Mercury
The recent cyclonic swells illustrate only too well the obvious hazard of attempting to create a sea-facing small craft mooring in the Vetch's basin. [ Full Story... ]
Harbour at Vetch's will be impractical
09 March, 2007 Mercury
I have been involved in sailing for most of my life, having owned a variety of boats - including an ocean-going yacht - and I also love the Vetch's beach area and use it as well. [ Full Story... ]
Cyclonic conditions are proof enough
07 March, 2007 Mercury
With reference to the article "Durban is not Monaco or Dubai" (The Mercury, February 23): hopefully, all interested parties and developers of the small craft harbour have been enlightened by the sea conditions, as the effects of Cyclone Gamede were felt along our coastline. [ Full Story... ]
Legality of new marina questioned
Tony Carnie 06 March, 2007 Mercury
THE legality of the controversial yachting marina at Vetch's Pier in Durban has been cast into doubt, with reports that the developers have no authority to buy up a part of the sea to create luxury flats and a hotel resort. [ Full Story... ]
Sale Of Vetch's Beach Raises Legal Concerns
06 March, 2007 Mercury
The complexity of the situation surrounding Vetch's beach [ Full Story... ]
City ignores objections to Point project
01 March, 2007 Mercury
In the letter by J P Purshotum (The Mercury, February 14 ) he accused the municipality of not involving the public in the decision to build the new stadium. [ Full Story... ]
Durban is not Monaco or Dubai
23 February, 2007 Mercury
In The Mercury of January 25, Tony Carnie conducted an interview with Neels Brink, Project Director for the Durban Point Development Company. [ Full Story... ]
Anglers battling unkind conditions
23 February, 2007 Mercury
Weather patterns for anglers at this time of the year have been adverse, to say the least. [ Full Story... ]
Destroying Vetch's would be unfair to residents
16 February, 2007 Mercury
I wonder if the powers-that-be have ever swum at Vetch's Beach? Have they taken their elderly parents or young children there? [ Full Story... ]
Vetch's harbour site alternative
12 February, 2007 Mercury
The deadline for submissions for comments to the draft environmental impact assessment for the construction of a small craft harbour at Vetch's Beach passed on January 31. [ Full Story... ]
Vetch's Pier development will only benefit the affluent at the expense of the public
05 February, 2007 Mercury
I have lived in Durban for 50 years, regularly enjoying the recreational facilities of the port and beach. [ Full Story... ]
Boat owners don't want harbour at Vetch's
30 January, 2007 Mercury
Neels Brink's statements about the Point development (The Mercury, January 25) reveal the DPDC's real intentions for wanting to develop a small craft harbour on Vetch's Beach. Not only do they want the beach; they want to build out into the sea as well! [ Full Story... ]
Point needs a 'real waterfront'
25 January, 2007 Mercury
DURBAN'S much-vaunted Point Waterfront project would never become "a real waterfront" unless a new yachting marina and small craft harbour was built at Vetch's Pier. [ Full Story... ]
Many who are not club members use Vetch's Beach
24 January, 2007 Mercury
With the controversy regarding the Durban Point Development Company's desire to build a small craft harbour at Vetch's pier, I would like to make the following observations: [ Full Story... ]
Point developers' ignorance on display
23 January, 2007 Mercury
The letter by Rick Wilson, one of the developers of the Point area (The Mercury, January 19), demonstrates his ignorance of the Vetch's area. [ Full Story... ]
City Not Protecting The Interests Of Ratepayers
22 January, 2007 Mercury
I have been dealing with the relevant authorities regarding the preservation of the Vetch's Pier area for the use of the public in general and the watersports fraternity in particular for the past 17 years, in various capacities. [ Full Story... ]
New Harbour Will Open Beach To Many
19 January, 2007 Mercury
As a developer at the Point, I found the article which focused on the Point Waterfront Development and the proposed Yacht Mole Development (The Mercury January 12) somewhat one-sided. [ Full Story... ]
Point plans arouse passions
19 January, 2007 Mercury
The passions of many Durban residents are still running high over the latest Point Waterfront plans - although recent compromise deals may ensure reluctant support from surfers and other water sports groups. [ Full Story... ]
Have your say
18 January, 2007 Mercury
Retain Vetch's Pier for access to water sports for all and develop the Victoria Embankment. [ Full Story... ]
Waterfront Durban
Tony Carnie 12 January, 2007 Mercury
THE shape and character of maritime Durban is set to change dramatically - for better and for worse - as the city ponders the viability of two major waterfront development plans. [ Full Story... ]
Durban's double seafront projects
12 January, 2007 Mercury
The clock is ticking for the much-vaunted Point Waterfront development, where the latest "crown jewel" is being designed to lure a new wave of tourists and investors. [ Full Story... ]
Oppose Vetch's destruction
27 December, 2006 Mercury
It is common knowledge that the Durban Point Development Company intends destroying Vetch's Beach in order to build a small craft harbour... from The The Water Rat, Durban
Please clear rubble
08 May, 2006 Mercury
During July last year, eThekwini Municipal Manager Michael Sutcliffe allowed Portnet, or one of its contractors, to dump a massive amount of rubble on to the beach in front of the Paddle Ski Club at Vetch's Pier... writes 'Rat on the Rocks' from Durban [ Full Story... ]
No Teddy Bears' Picnic Down At South Beach
04 May, 2006 Mercury
The appalling state of South Beach, since the City Manager allowed Portnet to dump tons of rock and rubble on to it, has prompted me to pen this rhyme: [ Full Story... ]
Disconcerting silence on Vetch's Pier state
11 April, 2006 Mercury
When citizens of Durban criticise the municipality through the press, it usually does not take long for the authorities to respond and "set the record straight"... writes Johnny Vassilaros from Durban [ Full Story... ]
Sabotage behind beach rubble?
17 March, 2006 Mercury
There is something decidedly sinister about the condition of Vetch's Beach. What used to be an area with pristinely clean sand is now covered in rubble... from Disgusted of Durban. [ Full Story... ]
Point Is Not Really Suited To New Homes
12 September, 2005
Mercury
There is much hype surrounding the development at Durban's Point area. Flats are being built and canals dug. However, I am not at all convinced that the developer is on the right track... from Unconvinced of Durban. [ Full Story... ]
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
The Mercury 18 September 2007
Point Developers Gamble With Ratepayers' Money
The Mercury
September 18, 2007 Edition 1
The Durban Point Development Company's new plans for the small-craft harbour at Vetch's, as revealed in The Mercury on September 14, reveal a number of concerning issues.
I get the impression that the company (which is 50% owned by the city) is gambling with ratepayers' money. Project Director Neels Brink stated that "if we don't go ahead with the small-craft harbour, it will be a financial disaster for the Point".
It appears that they are so confident that the authorities will approve the plans, they have simply gone ahead with construction before receiving approval. Evidence of this are the canals which have already been built.
For the development to go ahead, the company is desperately trying to displace the water sports clubs. This is a grim reminder of apartheid-style land grabs.
Brink also speaks of icons. In defence of the boating clubs, the Hobie Cat, Crocker Paddleski and Ski Boat clubs are Durban icons. If the small-craft harbour is allowed to go ahead, these icons will disappear from Durban for ever.
I find it ridiculous that, the day after our coast was under a tsunami alert, the company revealed plans to build a hotel below the high-water mark.
If readers would like to learn more about these controversial plans, they should attend a public meeting that has been arranged by the consultant who has prepared the draft environmental impact assessment. This will be held at at The Durban Manor at 8.30am on September 29 .
The Water Rat
Durban
The Mercury
September 18, 2007 Edition 1
The Durban Point Development Company's new plans for the small-craft harbour at Vetch's, as revealed in The Mercury on September 14, reveal a number of concerning issues.
I get the impression that the company (which is 50% owned by the city) is gambling with ratepayers' money. Project Director Neels Brink stated that "if we don't go ahead with the small-craft harbour, it will be a financial disaster for the Point".
It appears that they are so confident that the authorities will approve the plans, they have simply gone ahead with construction before receiving approval. Evidence of this are the canals which have already been built.
For the development to go ahead, the company is desperately trying to displace the water sports clubs. This is a grim reminder of apartheid-style land grabs.
Brink also speaks of icons. In defence of the boating clubs, the Hobie Cat, Crocker Paddleski and Ski Boat clubs are Durban icons. If the small-craft harbour is allowed to go ahead, these icons will disappear from Durban for ever.
I find it ridiculous that, the day after our coast was under a tsunami alert, the company revealed plans to build a hotel below the high-water mark.
If readers would like to learn more about these controversial plans, they should attend a public meeting that has been arranged by the consultant who has prepared the draft environmental impact assessment. This will be held at at The Durban Manor at 8.30am on September 29 .
The Water Rat
Durban
Saturday, September 15, 2007
Letters
City's workings remain a mystery
Photo: INLSA
The Mercury - September 14, 2007
The workings of Durban's city management remain a mystery to the ratepaying public. Consider the following as an example: The safety of Norman Reeves's home in lower La Lucia is threated by the fact that the beach in the vicinity has been eroded since the severe storms KZN experienced in March. Instead of providing Reeves and his neighbours with some form of assistance to safeguard their properties, the city does nothing. When Reeves takes the initiative to deal with the issue on his own, the city management threatens him with legal action for interfering with the beach.
Isn't it ironic that this is the same city management that is in partnership with the Durban Point Development Company, which is planning to destroy the entire stretch of Vetch's Beach?
The Water Rat
City's workings remain a mystery
Photo: INLSA
The Mercury - September 14, 2007
The workings of Durban's city management remain a mystery to the ratepaying public. Consider the following as an example: The safety of Norman Reeves's home in lower La Lucia is threated by the fact that the beach in the vicinity has been eroded since the severe storms KZN experienced in March. Instead of providing Reeves and his neighbours with some form of assistance to safeguard their properties, the city does nothing. When Reeves takes the initiative to deal with the issue on his own, the city management threatens him with legal action for interfering with the beach.
Isn't it ironic that this is the same city management that is in partnership with the Durban Point Development Company, which is planning to destroy the entire stretch of Vetch's Beach?
The Water Rat
Deciding on the future of the Point
The Mercury
September 14, 2007 Edition 1
Greg Ardé
The Durban Point Development Company, an entity half-owned by ratepayers, is hoping that its controversial plans to build a signature waterfront will be approved in January.
If they are, the DPDC believes this will unlock upwards of R3.8 billion in property investments over three years.
If the plans are not approved, the company believes the Point will be ruined and that the more than R2 billion sunk into the area since 2000 will be at risk.
The jury is out on that decision. The passion of DPDC protagonists is matched only by the vociferousness of objectors anxious not to have a small craft harbour at Vetch's, the shallow reef designed for safe entrance into the harbour in the 1800s by Captain James Vetch.
The Point's future hinges on how the Department of Agriculture and Environmental Affairs weighs up the pros and cons of reconfiguring the beach and reducing the water surface from 16ha to 9ha.
'Gain'
"There is a sacrifice to be had," said DPDC Project Director Neels Brink, "but you have to weigh that up against the wider gain for Durban. This is an iconic waterfront.
If we don't go ahead (with the small craft harbour), it will be a financial disaster for the Point and we'll end up with a few two-star hotels, some drab restaurants and a canal that looks like (Johannesburg's) Randburg Waterfront."
Brink has borne the brunt of criticism from watersport clubs, whose 5 000 members enjoy pride of place at Vetch's.
They believe the DPDC wants to privatise public land and alienate people from Vetch's. The skiboat club has legal opinion that the DPDC has no right to take ownership of the sea to build a hotel near the reef or residential flats alongside the new north pier, being constructed by the National Ports Authority (NPA).
Brink said the NPA had a legal opinion that it owned the sea.
The public will not be able to access about 10% of the total DPDC land around the residential sites built on land reclaimed alongside the new pier.
"Presently, the land doesn't exist, so nothing is taken away from anyone," said Brink.
By compromise with objectors and the city council, the DPDC had revised plans to increase Vetch's beach and to set buildings back from the sea, except the hotel that had moved inside the small craft harbour, Brink said. He argued that the history of the Point redevelopment was important.
It became a reality in about 2000, when the then head of the city's Economic Development Unit, Viv McMenamin, outlined Durban's vision of investing in economic generators such as the R750 million uShaka Marine World.
The Point was repackaged after a failed attempt to attract big Malaysian investment. Tongaat-Hulett Development agreed to manage the initiative in return for joint development of Riverhorse Business Park alongside the N2, which has attracted billions of rands in investment and opened up transport routes between the city centre and KwaMashu and Phoenix.
Back to the Point: sitting beside the city-funded marine theme park is the DPDC land, 55ha of prime real estate, the first phase of which was bought up by private developers in 2002-03.
The DPDC has since invested R160 million in canals, roads and infrastructure in the precinct, while just outside, the city has spent R300 million upgrading a substation, sewage works and roads, most notably Point and Shepstone streets.
In total, there is 575 000m2 of space in the precinct (that is a bulk figure and represents multistorey buildings). To date about 200 000m2 has been sold, and about 60% of that has been developed, which has lured investment of more than R1 billion, which has tripled property prices outside the precinct.
There are about 400 flats in various buildings in the DPDC, and if the developers have their way, many more are to come.
The average selling price of apartments is R12 000/m2, compared with between R16 000 and R18 000 in Umhlanga.
Brink believes the remaining 375 000m2 of bulk could be sold and developed by 2011, if the government gives the Point's small craft harbour the green light.
At a building cost of R10 000/m2 that means an investment of R3 billion, excluding the R800 million required for the marina and surrounding infrastructure.
top.DisplayAds('SquareL', 13, 2815);
And, more importantly, argues Brink, the Point will do for Durban what Cape Town's waterfront did to transform that city's status internationally.
Harbour
But, much hinges on the small craft harbour.
DPDC design consultant Nathan Iyer says Durban's so-called Golden Mile is a 10km stretch of beach that is "pretty much the same". The DPDC proposes accommodating all watersports in a single 2 500m2 club area, although some members describe this as "cramped".
Iyer says the length of the beach below uShaka will be expanded from 153m to 234m and, by pulling inland, increased from 3 794m2 to 10 909m2. Public space, he says, will be increased from 1.5ha to 3.6ha.
"But it will be different and the sacrifice is that the water surface area of Vetch's will be reduced by more than a quarter," said Brink.
The DPDC says it has taken heed of environmental concerns and will not interfere with the reef at Vetch's. Instead, it will build a new reef running alongside the historic one.
The plans for the hotel at the southern point of Vetch's Reef envisage building up to the height of the Bluff headland (25 storeys/about 60m), with an underwater link to acres of basement parking beneath the mainland.
Pravin Amar, the consultant commissioned by the DPDC, said the National Environmental Management Act demanded that developments be people-centred, and take into account the "broader interests" of society. "There is a trade-off to be made with this development. The question is: Who accepts the trade-off?"
Brink says the development will be world-class and would open up a public space that was being commandeered, and in some instances fenced off, by a minority - the members of water sports clubs.
Chris Sutton, who started the Save Vetch's Campaign using the pen name the "Water Rat", said the Point could become an asset to Durban if the small craft harbour was placed inside the port.
Plans for the small craft harbour over Vetch's were: "Rubbish. If they build it they will kill paddleskiing, windsurfing and catamaran sailing.
'Bigger picture'
"The DPDC wants to reduce that beach. They are not looking at the bigger picture. The beach could be developed like Suncoast was, with grass and some huts," said Sutton.
According to an economic impact assessment study, the Point will contribute more than R1.2 billion a year to South Africa's gross domestic product (GDP) if the small craft harbour is built and the area is adequately marketed to tourists.
The study says 5 600 construction jobs will be created and 6 300 permanent jobs, if sufficient tourists are attracted there.
"On economic grounds, the project should proceed promptly."
The study says the loss to existing watersports is "almost inconceivable".
The assessment says watersports contribute R490 million a year to GDP and are responsible for 3 800 jobs a year.
The study said the city might have to bail the Point out financially if the project did not go ahead in its entirety. It also recommended "extreme care" in the treatment of Vetch's Pier.
Ultimately, the provincial department will weigh up the arguments. Whatever the decision, there will be some unhappy people. Only time will tell what is in the best interests of the people of Durban. Another public meeting is scheduled for 9am on September 29.
Most of the information relating to the studies and the public process on the Point is available for download at www.pravinamar.com. A hard copy is available at the Durban Central Library.
The Mercury
September 14, 2007 Edition 1
Greg Ardé
The Durban Point Development Company, an entity half-owned by ratepayers, is hoping that its controversial plans to build a signature waterfront will be approved in January.
If they are, the DPDC believes this will unlock upwards of R3.8 billion in property investments over three years.
If the plans are not approved, the company believes the Point will be ruined and that the more than R2 billion sunk into the area since 2000 will be at risk.
The jury is out on that decision. The passion of DPDC protagonists is matched only by the vociferousness of objectors anxious not to have a small craft harbour at Vetch's, the shallow reef designed for safe entrance into the harbour in the 1800s by Captain James Vetch.
The Point's future hinges on how the Department of Agriculture and Environmental Affairs weighs up the pros and cons of reconfiguring the beach and reducing the water surface from 16ha to 9ha.
'Gain'
"There is a sacrifice to be had," said DPDC Project Director Neels Brink, "but you have to weigh that up against the wider gain for Durban. This is an iconic waterfront.
If we don't go ahead (with the small craft harbour), it will be a financial disaster for the Point and we'll end up with a few two-star hotels, some drab restaurants and a canal that looks like (Johannesburg's) Randburg Waterfront."
Brink has borne the brunt of criticism from watersport clubs, whose 5 000 members enjoy pride of place at Vetch's.
They believe the DPDC wants to privatise public land and alienate people from Vetch's. The skiboat club has legal opinion that the DPDC has no right to take ownership of the sea to build a hotel near the reef or residential flats alongside the new north pier, being constructed by the National Ports Authority (NPA).
Brink said the NPA had a legal opinion that it owned the sea.
The public will not be able to access about 10% of the total DPDC land around the residential sites built on land reclaimed alongside the new pier.
"Presently, the land doesn't exist, so nothing is taken away from anyone," said Brink.
By compromise with objectors and the city council, the DPDC had revised plans to increase Vetch's beach and to set buildings back from the sea, except the hotel that had moved inside the small craft harbour, Brink said. He argued that the history of the Point redevelopment was important.
It became a reality in about 2000, when the then head of the city's Economic Development Unit, Viv McMenamin, outlined Durban's vision of investing in economic generators such as the R750 million uShaka Marine World.
The Point was repackaged after a failed attempt to attract big Malaysian investment. Tongaat-Hulett Development agreed to manage the initiative in return for joint development of Riverhorse Business Park alongside the N2, which has attracted billions of rands in investment and opened up transport routes between the city centre and KwaMashu and Phoenix.
Back to the Point: sitting beside the city-funded marine theme park is the DPDC land, 55ha of prime real estate, the first phase of which was bought up by private developers in 2002-03.
The DPDC has since invested R160 million in canals, roads and infrastructure in the precinct, while just outside, the city has spent R300 million upgrading a substation, sewage works and roads, most notably Point and Shepstone streets.
In total, there is 575 000m2 of space in the precinct (that is a bulk figure and represents multistorey buildings). To date about 200 000m2 has been sold, and about 60% of that has been developed, which has lured investment of more than R1 billion, which has tripled property prices outside the precinct.
There are about 400 flats in various buildings in the DPDC, and if the developers have their way, many more are to come.
The average selling price of apartments is R12 000/m2, compared with between R16 000 and R18 000 in Umhlanga.
Brink believes the remaining 375 000m2 of bulk could be sold and developed by 2011, if the government gives the Point's small craft harbour the green light.
At a building cost of R10 000/m2 that means an investment of R3 billion, excluding the R800 million required for the marina and surrounding infrastructure.
top.DisplayAds('SquareL', 13, 2815);
And, more importantly, argues Brink, the Point will do for Durban what Cape Town's waterfront did to transform that city's status internationally.
Harbour
But, much hinges on the small craft harbour.
DPDC design consultant Nathan Iyer says Durban's so-called Golden Mile is a 10km stretch of beach that is "pretty much the same". The DPDC proposes accommodating all watersports in a single 2 500m2 club area, although some members describe this as "cramped".
Iyer says the length of the beach below uShaka will be expanded from 153m to 234m and, by pulling inland, increased from 3 794m2 to 10 909m2. Public space, he says, will be increased from 1.5ha to 3.6ha.
"But it will be different and the sacrifice is that the water surface area of Vetch's will be reduced by more than a quarter," said Brink.
The DPDC says it has taken heed of environmental concerns and will not interfere with the reef at Vetch's. Instead, it will build a new reef running alongside the historic one.
The plans for the hotel at the southern point of Vetch's Reef envisage building up to the height of the Bluff headland (25 storeys/about 60m), with an underwater link to acres of basement parking beneath the mainland.
Pravin Amar, the consultant commissioned by the DPDC, said the National Environmental Management Act demanded that developments be people-centred, and take into account the "broader interests" of society. "There is a trade-off to be made with this development. The question is: Who accepts the trade-off?"
Brink says the development will be world-class and would open up a public space that was being commandeered, and in some instances fenced off, by a minority - the members of water sports clubs.
Chris Sutton, who started the Save Vetch's Campaign using the pen name the "Water Rat", said the Point could become an asset to Durban if the small craft harbour was placed inside the port.
Plans for the small craft harbour over Vetch's were: "Rubbish. If they build it they will kill paddleskiing, windsurfing and catamaran sailing.
'Bigger picture'
"The DPDC wants to reduce that beach. They are not looking at the bigger picture. The beach could be developed like Suncoast was, with grass and some huts," said Sutton.
According to an economic impact assessment study, the Point will contribute more than R1.2 billion a year to South Africa's gross domestic product (GDP) if the small craft harbour is built and the area is adequately marketed to tourists.
The study says 5 600 construction jobs will be created and 6 300 permanent jobs, if sufficient tourists are attracted there.
"On economic grounds, the project should proceed promptly."
The study says the loss to existing watersports is "almost inconceivable".
The assessment says watersports contribute R490 million a year to GDP and are responsible for 3 800 jobs a year.
The study said the city might have to bail the Point out financially if the project did not go ahead in its entirety. It also recommended "extreme care" in the treatment of Vetch's Pier.
Ultimately, the provincial department will weigh up the arguments. Whatever the decision, there will be some unhappy people. Only time will tell what is in the best interests of the people of Durban. Another public meeting is scheduled for 9am on September 29.
Most of the information relating to the studies and the public process on the Point is available for download at www.pravinamar.com. A hard copy is available at the Durban Central Library.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
