5. THE STUDY AREA

The development properties are situated in the industrial/service trade district to the south east of the Knysna CBD (Please refer Annexure B). Originally, the proximity of the railway station/goods yard and the Thesen Island factory made this an ideal location for an industrial area on the then outskirts of town. Today, this small Industrial area is trapped between the CBD and the Lagoon and is no longer suitable for industrial purposes. This is because of the desire to enhance the Lagoon edge aesthetics and also due to environmental considerations. Tourism is the base of Knysna’s economy and plays an important role in local economic growth and well-being. Continuous development pressure for tourist related facilities close to the water’s edge have triggered an “urban renewal” trend in the area, commencing with the redevelopment of the railway-goods yard into the Knysna Quays and the redevelopment of Thesen Island from a sawmill to a luxury residential marina.

The development properties are zoned for industrial purposes (See Page 5). The Industrial properties to the east of the Waterfront Development have not yet changed in character and the land uses in the area can be described as light industrial (e.g. breweries) and service trades (Trent Tyre, Panel Beaters, etc.) (See Page 6). These land uses do not represent the optimal use of these prime waterfront properties and will in all probability became subject to piece meal and uncoordinated redevelopment initiatives in the near future. The Knysna Municipality has recognised this fact and has appointed specialists to conduct a Lower Central Enhancement Study that will provide guidelines for further development in the area.

Municipal Land Holding in the General Area:	Current Zoning Map:
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Land Ussage Plan:	Developer Land Ownership :
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