Plans have been submitted for the construction of a new retail centre and associated infrastructure in Firlands, Gordon’s Bay, just opposite Green Bay Eco Estate, on Portions 228 and 237 of Farm Firland No. 959, situated at the corner of Sir Lowry’s Pass Road and Hydro Road.
According to a Draft Basic Assessment Report released in April by Groenberg Enviro (Pty) Ltd, commissioned by Firlands Corner Pty Ltd, the development aims to introduce a multi-story complex offering a mix of retail and office space.
The plans outline a ground and first floor dedicated to shops, restaurants, a salon, a pharmacy, and necessary ablution facilities.
The second and third floors are earmarked for office spaces.
The proposed centre will also include parking bays and access from Hydro Street for general traffic. Service vehicles are planned to access the site via the existing Windsor Street.
Essential associated infrastructure such as electricity, sewage, bulk water, and stormwater systems are also part of the development proposal.
Notably, a portion of the development is situated within 32 meters of an artificial wetland located on the western boundary of the site.
The Draft Basic Assessment Report, which includes detailed site plans and locality maps, is part of the environmental impact assessment process required by the National Environmental Management Act.
Interested and affected parties will have the opportunity to review the full Draft Basic Assessment Report and provide comments as part of the public participation process.
The final Basic Assessment Report will incorporate these comments and responses before being submitted to the Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning for a decision on the Environmental Authorisation.
The Draft Basic Assessment Report also includes specialist reports, an environmental management programme and an impact and risk assessment for the proposed development.
These documents aim to identify and mitigate any potential environmental impacts associated with the construction and operation of the retail centre.
Further information regarding the project can be obtained from Groenberg Enviro PTY Ltd, with Misché Molife listed as the contact person on mische@groenbergenviro.co.za or 079 111 7378.
