Outrage over approval for floating water park at Southbroom lagoon

Southbroom residents and nature lovers have expressed outrage after learning that Ray Nkonyeni Municipality (RNM) has granted approval for the operation of a floating water park at the Southbroom main beach lagoon.

The letter of consent, signed by municipal manager Khetha Zulu, gives municipal approval to operate a floating water park at Southbroom main beach for a period of five years.

Approval subject to conditions

According to the letter, the approval is subject to several conditions:
1. Utilisation of no more than 1 700 square metres at the Southbroom main beach lagoon.
2.Tariff payment of R15 000 per month during the months of operation.
3.Weekly testing of E.coli levels and submission of results to the municipality.
4.Installation of suitable, municipal-approved signage warning users of the possibility of E.coli.
5.Maintaining up-to-date public liability insurance with a reputable financial services provider.

Imbezane River boasts birdlife and wildlife

The Imbezane River, which runs through Southbroom village, is known for its rich birdlife and wildlife – including flamingos, oyster catchers and the rare palm-nut vulture, which was spotted basking on a rock along the river last weekend.

Residents believe the development poses a serious threat to the sensitive lagoon ecosystem, which forms part of the estuary’s natural habitat.

Approval confirmed

RNM spokesperson Simon April confirmed the approval, stating that the municipality “grants approval for applications of this nature only after due consideration of all relevant restrictions, conditions and statutory requirements, strictly within the confines of its delegated authority.”

He added: “As evidenced by the approval letter, the document bears the signature of the accounting officer of the municipality, thereby confirming that all requisite procedural and administrative processes were duly complied with.”

No review by portfolio committees

Ward councillor Alan Bosch opposed the proposed floating park, saying the concept was approved by the municipal manager last year without being reviewed by any of the portfolio committees.

“The concept didn’t go through the proper procedures – it’s a ‘dead duck in the water’ as far as I’m concerned,” said Bosch.

Approval violates administrative procedures

Eric Annegarn, chairperson of the Southbroom Property Owners’ Association, said the approval violates administrative procedures, adding that no public participation, health, or environmental impact studies were conducted.

“It’s a serious threat to the environmental viability and ecosystem of the lagoon – and everything that makes Southbroom what it is,” he said.

Annegarn added that graders were reportedly preparing to begin work from the Ramsgate side of the lagoon last week, but the activity has been halted for now.
“Keep your eyes peeled – we’ll get bodies there if required,” he warned.

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