9.2 LOCAL PLANNING AND POLICY CONTEXT

In the context of local planning and policy, the Eden Spatial Development Framework, Knysna 2020 and the Knysna Spatial Development Framework are relevant.

9.2.1 Eden Spatial Development Framework

The Eden District Spatial Development Framework requires that sustainable development be the driving force behind spatial planning. It states that the key principles that should drive the local municipal spatial development frameworks are human well-being, environmental integrity, and economic efficiency. The proposals discussed in this document will be able to achieve all three of the key principles.

9.2.2 Knysna 2020

Knysna 2020 is the long term planning Vision for Knysna and has seven strategic objectives, with which any development proposal must align. They Include:

· A caring and contented town;
· A successful and respected town;
· An attractive and sustainable town;
· A reliably functioning town;
· A financially sound town;
· A dynamic and welcoming town;
· A town prepared for the future.

The proposal for the upgrade of the Waterfront industrial area is based on these 7 objectives.

9.2.3 Draft Knysna Spatial Development Framework

The Knysna Spatial Development Framework is based on the same principles of more efficient urban form. It contains clear policy guidelines of how to achieve this preferred urban form. Of relevance to this project are the following:

Knysna CBD

The policy guidelines focus on revitalising the CBD. This includes enhancing the primacy of the CBD by:

· supporting existing businesses and attracting new business;
· improving the quality of the built environment; and
· maintaining and encouraging further development of the residential component of the CBD.

The proposal contained in this document embraces the above principles.

Knysna Lagoon Edge

The proposals and policy guidelines include:

· promoting public access and use of the lagoon edge as an important part of experiencing the key place-making element of Knysna Basin;
· promoting public recreation areas as parts of edge where public access exists for the greatest number of residents (public parks, viewpoints, public walking and cycle trails) and that focus on views of the lagoon.

The concept of the Public linear park is in line with these guidelines.

9.2.4 Industrial Land Study

The study confirmed that both the existing industrial areas are located on land that could be used for other, higher value purposes, by virtue of their views, and their proximity to the Knysna Lagoon and other amenities of the town. The possibility of relocating the existing industries out of these areas was, therefore, recommended.

9.2.5 Proposed Study for Lower Central Enhancement as prepared by CMAi (and soon to be considered by Knysna Municipality)

Please see below which is an extract from the Lower Central Enhancement Study as conducted by CMAI to which the proposal complies:

The south eastern industrial area is situated on prime waterfront land off Waterfront Dive and Queen Street. The location at the intersection of these key thoroughfares and its proximity to the water implies the creation of a mixed use node. The transect zoning (please refer Annexure L) has been designated in such a way as to integrate the area with Lower Central however it should be treated as a distinct precinct. The area should be named and the architecture, character and scale should reflect the industrial history of the site. There is huge scope for the creation of a linear park along the entire waterfront connecting the proposed green park on the high school sports field and Loerie Park. The linear park should incorporate the leisure route.

• The existing green areas adjacent to the industrial zone could be formalised as public green space and, in conjunction with the proposed park on the sports ground, ensure the green space balance within Lower Central.
• Structures within the park should be available for public use.
• A canal with small harbour pockets and parallel boat parking created within the industrial area park would emphasize the linearity and landform of the park and waters edge. It would create a barrier between the sensitive salt marsh and the (extended) accessible waterfront.
• The canal could provide a suitable boat launch for the sea scouts and their amenities could be located anywhere along its length.
• In accordance with national guidance habitable finished floor level of new buildings must be raised at least 3m above Mean Sea Level.
• Public thoroughfares should be protected. The upgrading of the industrial node should provide good street connectivity, for pedestrians and vehicles, delivering tourists and the local community to the water.
• The area currently zoned as transport zone should be retained as such for use as an intermodal transport hub with associated commercial activity.
• The driving testing ground is not ideally located; a more appropriate site should be sought. Its current location provides a suitable site for a building / structure with civic or public use, scaled to respect the view lines of adjacent properties.

The proposal in this document will be in line with the Central Enhancement Study.

9.2.6 KNYSNA BUSINESS POLICY GUIDELINES

The Knysna Business Policy Guidelines notes the application area to be specifically for Business use and recognize the fact that Industrial zoning is no longer appropriate for the area.