Environmental authorisation has been granted for the proposed six-storey ‘The Square’ development despite more than 100 objections from residents.

Managing director of Niche Developments, Paul Muir, was informed in writing on June 19 of the KZN Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs’ (EDTEA) decision following the public participation (PP) process for the mixed-use development (‘Six-storey shift for Ballito’, Courier, December 11, 2025), which closed on January 19. A Basic Assessment Report for the Ballito Village development was completed in March.

The PP process received more than 100 registered objections from residents and almost 100 signatures on a formal petition (‘Big response to public proposal’, Courier, February 13, 2026).

The open land, located between several popular restaurants, is often used for entertainment, charity drives and informal gatherings. The mixed-use development will comprise two basement levels, ground-floor retail space and serviced residential units above.

Ballito Village restaurateurs also questioned the proposed development’s impact on their businesses (‘Restaurants fear building impact’, Courier, December 19, 2025).

Independent environmental practitioner Stephanie Denison, director of Confluence Strategic Development, informed all Interested and Affected Parties (I&APs) by email on June 22 that the application, submitted by Niche Investments (Pty) Ltd for The Square Ballito at 20 Compensation Beach Road, had been formally accepted by EDTEA.

I&APs can appeal the decision by lodging an appeal in terms of the National Appeal Regulations (2025) within 20 days, no later than July 13.

An appellant must submit the appeal in writing to the Appeal Administrator at the office of the KZN EDTEA MEC by post, fax, email or hand delivery.

Appeals can be submitted to the department at Private Bag X9152, Pietermaritzburg, 3200, or delivered to Room 218.23, Second Floor, 270 Jabu Ndlovu Street, Pietermaritzburg, 3201.

For more information, contact Vanessa Maclou on 033 264 2651 or 082 461 7668, or email vanessa.maclou@kznedtea.gov.za.