Rietfontein – K60 scoping report must be viewed
PAULSHOF - The K60 scoping report is available for viewing and Friends of Rietfontein have asked the community to consider why Rietfontein Nature Reserve, which will be affected by the K60 road, is an important feature in the area.
Michelle Bertschinger of Friends of Rietfontein explained that Reitfontein Nature Reserve is the last remaining 24-hectare bushveld nature reserve located in the suburb of Paulshof.
The reserve is also home to FreeMe Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre which is the biggest rehabilitation centre in Gauteng.
Bertschinger explained that the proposed K60 road, which would be 62 metres wide, would cut through the northwest corner of the Rietfontein Nature Reserve and would pass just 80 metres away from FreeMe’s wildlife enclosures.
Bertschinger said, “This will have a drastic effect on the stress levels of all the animals in the enclosures.”
She added that a road of this size would cut off the movement of small mammals as it would divide the green belt, potentially cause air and noise pollution, and could destroy a sensitive ecosystem.
A scoping report that deals with the issues and concerns of interested and affected parties is now available for viewing at FreeMe, the South African Guide Dog Association, Rivonia Library and St Peter’s Preparatory School.
Bertschinger said, “We as Friends of Rietfontein urge the community to take the time to view the scoping report. Using this limited window of opportunity, you can make a difference to our growing city by preserving an essential green lung in the heart of suburbia.”
