19 January and decision on the proposed development

Pot Plant Owl's wetland is saved!

This morning we received notification from the Government Department who reviewed the developer's appeal against the original decision. This is what we received:

Please be advised that following consideration of an appeal in respect of this matter the MEC, Ms Nandi Mayathula-Khoza, has decided to dismiss the appeal due to the following:



1. The proposed development will potentially impact negatively on the wetlands present on site.

2. The mitigation measures suggested in respect of the proposed development are not adequate to address potential impacts to the river system and wetlands present on site.

3. Authorisation was denied with due process and compliance with applicable legislation and policies including the Department’s Gauteng Ridges Policy which states that ridges are ecologically sensitive and therefore should be protected against transformation that will negatively impact on such ecologically sensitive biodiversity.



At this time, Allan and I would like to once again thank each and every one of you who signed the petition to stop the development on the wetland. Thank you to all of you who have shown support and offered assistance. We really appreciate it.

What happens now, we do not know. We are looking to offer our assistance to the developer to rehabilitate the wetland, and turn it into something indigenous and safe for the creatures who call it their home.

Will keep you updated.