Policy to retain character of Kyalami
KYALAMI - The Greater Kyalami Conservancy gave extensive input into the Gauteng Environmental Management Framework, a policy compiled during the course of last year by the Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, which is set to guide development throughout the province.
This is according to the chairperson of the Greater Kyalami Conservancy, Kristin Kallesen. She said the new policy and map were announced at the department’s open day on 26 November last year.
She said the map identified five special control zones in the province: Dinokeng, the Cradle of Humankind, the Vaal Dam, Johannesburg South (Klipriviersberg area), and Johannesburg North (the Greater Kyalami Conservancy).
Kallesen explained that the conservancy is an organisation that promotes the protection of the area’s wetlands, wildlife and open space in the Kyalami area. She said the large property sizes allow residents to keep horses on their properties and the many equestrian clubs, riding schools, liveries and related businesses make this the seat of equestrian sport and industry in South Africa.
Kallesen said the new policy states it is important to retain the character of the Kyalami area as it currently provides specific services to the surrounding community including habitat for threatened species, shared equestrian facilities and business, mountain biking and bridle trails.
The policy recognised equestrian therapy centres provide an important service to the Diepsloot community for at-risk youth and disabled individuals and encourages urban agricultural schemes in line with the global movement to eat locally and to increase food security. It states the area should be treated as a high control zone outside the urban edge and conservation and related tourism and recreational activities should dominate, she said.
“This is an important recognition of the hard work and inputs given by many residents and associations over the years pointing out the uniqueness and importance of this area,” said Kallesen.
To find out more about the policy or the conservancy, details can be found on the website. Kallesen said new members are welcomed to join the conservancy. It is through community support and participation that this vision can be realised.
Details: www.gekco.co.za
