A MAJOR revamp for the whole of the Uvongo beachfront, all the way from St Michael’s beach to Lucien Point, is on the cards if Hibiscus Coast Municipality accepts an exciting urban development and upgrade proposal for the town.
The proposal, which is still very much open to discussion, has been drawn up by the Uvongo Residents’ and Ratepayers’ Association, in consultation with the Ward 19 councillor Peter Naude and the ward committee. Ivungu River Conservancy has added some comments and suggestions. Now it is your turn. Cllr Naude is asking for comments and ideas from all interested residents.
He pointed out that the proposal was only a preliminary document and that the suggestions in the document were not written in stone. All comments would be more than welcome. Experts would have to check the feasibility of the proposal before the document was finalised. Cllr Naude also pointed out that the coastal zone, as the Admiralty Reserve was now called, could not be disturbed in any way without professional environmental consultation and proper authorisation from the legislated authorities.
Suggestions in the proposal include continuous and user-friendly brick paved walkways on either side of Lilliecrona Boulevard, the road between Lucien beach and Uvongo beach, and the improvement of the existing Saints’ Walk coastal path between Uvongo and St Michael’s. Other possible improvements are boardwalks with handrails in certain places, some strategic landscaping, improved beachfront parking, some permanent seating and improved lighting. One or two whale watching decks could also possibly be incorporated into the upgrade..
Ideas have been put forward to improve access from parking areas to beaches and walkways by incorporating access pathways, stilted stairways and ramps for wheelchairs and prams. Instigating a one-way system of beachfront roads between Uvongo and St Michael’s beaches would allow for angled parking, thereby increasing the number of parking spaces available along the beachfront. It would also make a busy and narrow section of the road safer for traffic and pedestrians.
Cllr Naude pointed out that a rigorous public participation process would inform the finalising of the plans for the project. In the meantime he and the ward committee would appreciate feedback and any bright ideas from Uvongo residents. Contact Peter Naude at 082 4326665.
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