Port Alfred : integrated development and environmental management strategy

Abstract

This report proposes a strategy for the development Port Alfred situated on the south east coast of the Province, South Africa. of cape The proposed development strategy takes cognisance of the importance of integrating development harmoniously with the environment. The study is not related to any particular development proposal but is rather a guide to future development and the identification of potential environmental hazards. Moreover, it could serve as a set of guidelines for land use planning and management at the urban scale anywhere in South Africa. The evaluation methods used are adapted from widely acceptable analysis techniques and include a combination of both the matrix and the overlay or "sieve" method which graphically analyses physical attributes. The study eminates from the Port Alfred Municipality's concern that demand for development could destroy the town's environmental quality and historical character which are seen as major tourist attractions. The report is divided into two sections, the first being to acquaint the reader with the area, it's constraints and potential. section 1 critically evaluates the existing physical, socio-economic and cultural environments of the town. The second part of the report (Section 2), combines the analysis of the physical and socio-economic environments into an Urban structure Plan and management proposals which provide a basis for the spatial management and control of future land use development proposals. The management proposals are based on the Integrated Environmental Management procedure advocated by the council for the Environment which is adapted to suit local conditions and includes the use of a three stage "proposal call" system which is seen to ensure an equitable balance between the demand for development, public participation and conservation of the town's biotic and abiotic environments. The "proposal call" system has been successfully employed in the United states of America for some years and was adopted by the cape Town city council in 1985 for disposing of council-owned land in a manner most acceptable to itself and the community. By combining both the principle of Integrated Environmental Management and the "proposal call" system Port Alfred should be assured of a future planning strategy which will both enhance development and promote environmental conservation thereby assuring the maintenance of environmental quality.