INTERESTED and affected parties have been invited to participate in the revival of the Jeffreys Bay Central Business District (CBD).
Kouga Executive Mayor, Horatio Hendricks, said the municipality would over the next few months be compiling a precinct plan to guide the development of the Jeffreys Bay CBD and main beachfront area.
“The aim of the plan is to breathe new life into the region’s economy by making the Jeffreys Bay CBD more attractive to investors, businesses, residents and visitors alike,” he said.
“Similar plans will also be compiled for our other towns as part of our commitment to keep Kouga Growing.”
Kouga Speaker, Hattingh Bornman, who is also the ward councillor for the earmarked area, said Urban Dynamics EC had been appointed to develop the precinct plan for the Jeffreys Bay CBD on behalf of the municipality.
“The CBD has been identified as a strategic investment node in the municipality’s Local Economic Development Strategy and Spatial Development Framework.
“Simply stated, it means that it is an area with great development and investment potential,” he said.
“The idea is to revive the CBD in partnership with community, public and private roleplayers. Potential economic spin-offs will include enhanced property values, as well as an increase in business and employment opportunities.”
Bornman said input from businesses and residents was important to ensure the success of the revival.
“We would, therefore, like to encourage all interested and affected parties to register as stakeholders.
“Several consultation meetings will be held where key issues affecting the Jeffreys Bay CBD and main beachfront area will be discussed.
“These issues include the buildings and spaces, land-uses, activities and transport.”
He said the earmarked area stretched roughly from Prospect Street and St Francis Street in the west to Diaz Road in the east, and from De Reyger Street in the north to Tornyn Street and Pell Street in the south.
Those who would like to register as interested and affected parties can do so be sending an email to Lawrence Ramakuwela at lramakuwela@kouga.gov.za by September 21, 2020. He can also be contacted for queries at 081 218 6787.
