WHEN I first set foot in Richards Bay during the early ’70s, I was immediately drawn to the unique lifestyle offered here.
This same lifestyle could be found anywhere on the north coast and was enjoyed by thousands of inland holidaymakers as well.
Weekends entailed a short drive up the beach, lazing in the sun, swimming in the sea, fishing at Dawson’s Rock or elsewhere, walking on the beach, playing some soccer, touch rugby or beach bat.
An unwritten rule was followed whereby one had to take back two bags full of refuse after every visit so as to help clean up the beaches.
Revenue was injected into the local economy, benefitting a large cross section of the population as entrepreneurs exhibited their crafts on the beach and started selling fruits, vegetables, ice cream, cold drinks, cigarettes and chip,s to name but a few articles.
These entrepreneurs were well supported as they removed the ‘hassle factor’ of having to go to a shop first in your ‘speedo’.
Following the decision to ban all driving on our beaches this all changed for the worst.
Our inland holidaymakers relocated to Mozambique, our local entrepreneurs closed shop, the beaches became a dumping place for rubble and the public had very little else to do.
I am a very devoted conservationist and would also not allow vehicles driving in our pristine and marine protected areas.
However, when you find poverty competing with the environment, it is usually the environment that loses.
Access to the beaches is very poor and the beaches and parking areas are now filthy and extremely unsafe.
The notion of parking your vehicle off the beach and then walking to your recreational spot is a very noble, but totally insane idea if you value your life and possessions, given the current facilities.
We need to create opportunities to alleviate poverty, while in the same breath conserve the environment.
Here is my challenge to our authorities:
• Identify non-sensitive areas along our coast where beach driving could be permitted, for instance Kleiklip Klofie to Dawson’s Rock, St Lucia mouth to swimming beach and so on;
• Develop a beach management system involving the local communities
• Develop a fee structure for permits as well as offences
• Market this unique activity to gain back the Mozambique share;
• Identify entrepreneurial opportunities associated with beach driving.
My plea is that we should all seek a win-win situation and not turn this into another endless contest.
WESSEL ENSLIN
