One of Bellville’s longstanding sites is heading for change, but residents are questioning what the plans could mean for its heritage, mature trees and the community that still calls it home.

The City of Cape Town has confirmed that planning has started for the future development of Hardekraaltjie Caravan Park.

The property has been formally designated for a sporting facility intended to benefit the surrounding community.

City spokesperson Luthando Tyhalibongo said no heritage impact assessment has been undertaken at this stage.

“The need for any heritage assessment will be considered as part of the applicable planning and approval processes for the proposed development,” Tyhalibongo said.

Residents want site protected

The plans come amid a community campaign calling for Hardekraaltjie and its mature trees to be preserved.

Resident Miranda van Wyk, who has lived at the park for almost two years, said residents have built a close-knit community and fear what the changes could mean for them.

“We are a very close community. We look after the park and we look after the grounds,” Van Wyk said.

Residents clean the property, tend to the gardens and contribute towards maintenance, she added.

What will happen to the trees?

The future of the mature trees has not yet been determined.

Tyhalibongo said their treatment would be considered during the relevant planning and approval processes.

The City has not received any other proposals for the caravan park or surrounding land.

For Van Wyk, preserving Hardekraaltjie is also about the people who have made it their home.

“Everybody’s a bit settled in,” she said.

Development faces hurdle

While planning has started, the City says the current occupation of the property is preventing it from progressing the project.

Occupants were given until 26 July to vacate but remain at the park.

“The continued unlawful occupation of the property is currently impeding the City’s ability to progress the proposed development,” Tyhalibongo said.

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