The following article appeared in the IERM Bulletin for May 2008. (IERM is the Institute of Environment and Recreation Management).

Big revamp planned for Eerste Steen

Eerste Steen, the southern coastal gateway to the Blaauwberg Conservation Area (BCA), is to be redeveloped into a multi-functional facility worthy of a conservation area of international significance. The City of Cape Town’s planning and environment portfolio committee has approved the concept of redeveloping Eerste Steen as a key node in the BCA providing amenities for visitors.

The concept design includes a visitor complex comprising a small conference venue, a redesigned and relocated environmental education centre, reserve management office, a restaurant and kiosk, visitors’ centre and formal trading outlets. It was recommended in the business framework and business plan for the BCA that the construction of the proposed new Eerste Steen facilities be funded by the City of Cape Town. The operation and management of the restaurant should, however, be outsourced to a reputable operator on a concessionaire basis.

The project is estimated to cost the city just over R14 million. According to the report to the portfolio committee, funds are available within the current budget for the necessary detailed feasibility, planning and design work. It was important for the city to be seen providing capital input to the BCA and providing facilities in order to 'kick-start' BCA’s development and demonstrate the commitment that the city has to the project, says the report.

Landscape architects and urban designers were appointed to design a master plan for Eerste Steen. In addition to the already mentioned facilities, it was important to retain the spot’s popular identity as a braai and picnic area. Removal of the existing ablution facilities and education centre to the proposed new administration node will allow for a large picnic area to be created. Disabled-friendly boardwalks, one of which extends into the natural area to the north of Eerste Steen, will link the various elements of the design.

The proposed redevelopment will require an environmental impact assessment process with public participation.

“The redevelopment of Eerste Steen is the first building block of achieving the tourist potential of the BCA,” commented Mr Theuns Vivian, manager of destination development. “Developments at the BCA are in line with the tourism objective to increase access to facilities and provide affordable opportunities for locals to participate in tourism.”

One of the key recommendations of the development and management plan for the BCA, adopted in 2000, was for the city to accept the concept of establishing the BCA as a protected area, focused to preserve and enhance the unique natural, historical and agricultural landscape. At the same time, community and tourist-centered amenities and programmes compatible to the ecological values of and vision for the BCA were to be accommodated.

Plans for the BCA’s development as a conservation area received a boost in 2006 when the BCA was officially declared a local nature reserve by the provincial minister of environment, planning and economic development, Tasneem Essop.

By: Suzelle Fourie www.News24.com