Stop High-Density Development in Sedgefield’s Coastal Dunes and Support Tessa Joubert
Comments
#1
Sedgefield is remarkable in its beauty.The dune area is particularly sensitive.
Let us keep it that way.
Chris Nieuwoudt (Sedgefield, 2025-03-27)
#3
I'm signing this because I believe we should not be building high-density development in the Sedgefield coastal dune zoneHerman Nieuwoudt (Sedgefield, 2025-03-28)
#5
Luxury apartment should not be built on nature reserves. Leave something for the generations to come.Chanelle Sillifant (Cape Town, 2025-03-28)
#8
Too much. Will disrupt and spoil natural habitat.Amori Barnes (Cape Town, 2025-03-28)
#10
I am signing this petition because the proposed development is not a sensitive or sustainable design. The site in question is a fragile dune ecosystem that is already under threat, and introducing a large-scale, multi-residential intervention will only accelerate its degradation.Dunes play a crucial role in coastal protection, biodiversity, and environmental stability. Instead of constructing high-density housing that will disrupt this delicate balance, efforts should focus on eco-friendly methods of stabilizing the dunes, primarily by allowing natural processes to continue undisturbed.
Additionally, approving this project contradicts the principles of responsible urban planning and environmental stewardship. The Knysna Municipality’s Spatial Development Framework emphasizes sustainability and the protection of natural assets, yet this development disregards those guidelines. Overturning the Tribunal’s decision without transparent environmental assessments undermines both ecological integrity and public trust.
Lastly, the use of legal intimidation tactics, such as the SLAPP suit against Tessa Joubert, sets a dangerous precedent that discourages citizens from voicing legitimate environmental concerns. Public participation should be encouraged, not silenced.
For these reasons, I stand firmly against this development and in support of protecting Sedgefield’s unique natural heritage.
Nikola Redelinghuys (Hermanus, 2025-03-28)
#11
I dont support thisJuan Viljoen (Cape Town, 2025-03-28)
#12
Nothing with building, providing housing and making money but this is not the location. Find a location that is less environmentally sensitive.William Taute (Cape Town, 2025-03-28)
#13
I'm signing this petition because i want cwecwe and her parents to get justice they deservezimi zenzile (Joburg, 2025-03-28)
#18
I have interviewed Tessa and other stakeholders and it is clear this is a SLAPP tactic to silence her.John Clarke (Johannesburg, 2025-04-01)
#20
I care about our coastHester Klopper (Jeffreysbay, 2025-04-01)
#21
Sedgefield is a community that values its natural surroundings, and we must protect it for future generations. We urge local authorities to stop the proposed development, as it would cause irreversible harm to the environment and disrupt the town’s natural beauty.Estelle Van Niekerk (Pretoria, 2025-04-01)
#22
We need to protect the last remainjng wild spaces!Anita Weideman (George, 2025-04-01)
#23
Firstly, building on such a sensitive area is disgraceful, as it will damage Sedgefields ability to be protected against coming climate impacts, such as bigger storm surges and extreme weather events.Secondly the wanton and disgraceful bullying that Tessa has endure from the developer needs to be challenged.
Linda Arkert (Wilderness, 2025-04-01)
#27
Development should not be allowed in ecologically sensitive areas. We have already lost so much because of developments in areas that should never have been developed.Ronel Beukes (Stellenbosch, 2025-04-01)
#28
I am concerned about the environmental impact of the development and the bullying tactics of the developers!Kathleen Wayland (Cape Town, 2025-04-01)
#29
So few people stand up for what is right, we need to protect our environment for future generations. I 100% support this brave ladyRosemary Byrnes (Wilderness, 2025-04-01)
#31
I'm signing this because the proposed development will harm the sensitive environment of the dune where the development is proposed. The developer is trying to silence the environmental advocate with bully-tactics, which is not acceptable. We need to protect the environment.Les Lange (George, 2025-04-01)
#33
This unique fossilised dune system with associated dune slack areas as well as the uninque Swartvlei with its most extraordinary little seahorses are very sensitive to any disturbance. IT should be left undisturbed.Apart from the fact that it is within a Critically Biodiversity Area as determined by various scientific ansalyses it is slso of great evolutionary value regarding the evolution of the development of the different ecosystems during thousands of years of fluctuating climates with the dunes representing long ice periods with windy conditions
Apart from the unique dune systems there are also foot prints of Stone Age people who left their foot ptints here since more than 150,000years ago.
Furthermore this specific area is slso rich in the history of early sea farers and traders of the Indian Ocean
Please fo not disturb one of the most fascinating places on earth that reflects and preserve the history of man and nature
Priscilla Swartz (Pretoria, 2025-04-01)
#35
The proposed development conflicts with prevailing environmental conditionsJan Arkert (Wilderness, 2025-04-01)
#38
The correct decision was made at the Municipal Tribunal not to allow the high density development within an area that was originally earmarked as a private Nature Reserve. This decision was turned around by a major no longer in office. Not only is such a development unsustainable and inappropriate to the particular area of the application, but it will set a precident for similar developments to follow. It must not be allowed to continue.Louise Kritzinger (Pretoria, 2025-04-01)
#39
I’m against nature destroyingY Stockenstrom (Knysna, 2025-04-01)
#42
We need to stop biodiversity loss. No more unsustainable development.Arne Witt (Wilderness, 2025-04-01)
#44
What Tessa is doing is what our environmental agencies and government departments SHOULD be doing..the law is Clear on developments of fragile coastal and dune areas...a Simple Big NO..I applaud her and hold her in the highest regard..Elaine KoolElaine Kool (Sedgefield, 2025-04-01)
#46
Objection.Juan Pienaar (Sedgefield, 2025-04-01)
#49
I am signing thus petition as I firmly believe the sensitive costal dunes need to be protected.Darryl Beck (Sedgefield, 2025-04-01)
#52
Building on that dune will destabilize the area,and promote flooding.Wendy Colloty (Sedgefield, 2025-04-01)
#53
I agree fully with the objection to this development in a sensitive dune area.Hans-Michael von der Heyde (Wilderness, 2025-04-01)
#54
I'm a resident of the town.Steven Van Wyk (Sedgefield, 2025-04-01)
#56
This development is wrong, it is in a sensitive coastal site and threatens our protected areasTim Carr (Wilderness, 2025-04-01)
#58
I care about the environment and find building complexes of this sort are displaced and not in tune with and disregard sensitive natural areas. The only thing that counts here is money.Garry Gibson (Wilderness, 2025-04-01)
#59
I am signing this petition as the infrastructure will collapse if any further developments continues in Sedgefield.Thomas Willich (Sedgefield, 2025-04-01)
#60
Sedgefield's infrastructure will not be able to cope with high density developments.Isac Montgomery (Sedgefield, 2025-04-01)
#61
High density development on theorimary dunes and in a valley between dunes is not environmentally or aesthetically acceptable. Additionally, water, sewerage and refuse removal service provision in Sedgefield are already stretched beyond breaking point and the addition of this many additional residents is unsustainable without first solving capacity problemsLawrence Boatwright (Sedgefield, 2025-04-01)
#62
Our dunes and coastal areas must be protected.Estelle Vivier (Cape Town, 2025-04-01)
#64
Destruction of dune systems have a detrimental effect on the natural integrity of the coastal system.Ena McIntyre (George, 2025-04-01)
#66
I'm signing because I believe in the environment and hate developers who abuse our natural habitat just for money.Elisia Strydom (Königsbronn, 2025-04-01)
#67
Moer nie daar bou nie!Zabeth Botha (Pretoria, 2025-04-01)
#68
I am signing this petition because I agree that these Dunes ought to be protected especially in the face of global warming. Already parts of the dunes further down towards Platbank are collapsing making those behind them vulnerable to nature's ocean elements. The shape of the beach itself is changing considerably all the time. The power of the wind and the waves and pull of the tides should not be under estimated.Sylvia Ferguson (Sedgefield, 2025-04-01)
#69
Development on a primary dune should not be allowed.André Kruger (Knysna, 2025-04-01)
#70
I don't want to see our dunes destroyed.Bradford Colloty (Sedgefield, 2025-04-01)
#73
The nature is this specific development (being high density in nature) will damage this extremely fragile coastal dune irretrievably, to the detriment of both flora and fauna.Shaun Gibson (Sedgefield, 2025-04-01)
#74
Destabilizing dune will affect all residents...Induce flooding.Wendy Colloty (Sedgefield, 2025-04-01)
#79
Short-term profit can't justify permanent environmental loss.Ockert Joubert (Sedgefield, 2025-04-01)
#83
It is such a beautiful place. I am visiting this since my childhood hollidays with my parents. After my marriage my husband and I also spent many happy times the in the serene beautiful dunes and beaches. Please do not destroy it.Suzie Roos (Lyttelton Manor, Centurion, 2025-04-01)
#84
I do not it is evologicaly sound to develop high density dwellings in this vulnerable area.Ewa Szewczenko (Sedgefield, 2025-04-01)
#85
I’m signing because I agree fully with the objections raised by Ms Joubert.Jonathan Lewis (Sedgfield, 2025-04-01)
#87
I'm concerned about our coastline and our natural world. It is disturbing when development encroach on what we are supposed to preserveArnold Strydom (Königsbronn, 2025-04-01)
#90
I’m opposed to developing natural ecological habitatsCarly Byram (Sedgefield, 2025-04-01)
#91
I care deeply about protecting this environment.Sonja Nieman (Sedgefield, 2025-04-01)
#92
As a member of the Katrivier Friends I object to this development on a highly sensitive dune adjacent to a river.No one wants high density buildings on our natural coast line. There is plenty of space in the town it’s just not visually fitting to the area.
Individuals that put in time effort and money to object to bad developments are not paid as are the developers environmentalists.
This is absurd the developers should be shamed for taking on the objectors.
Inge Redelinghuys (George, 2025-04-01)
#93
Protecting the dunesElsperth Hartzenberg (Knysna, 2025-04-01)
#94
I supporting my townMarilize April (Sedgefield, 2025-04-01)
#96
I fully agree that the environment must be protected!Lee-anne Botha (Sedgefield, 2025-04-01)
#98
Enough is enoughNtombizonke Nkosintsha (Western Cape, 2025-04-01)
#99
This is absolutely disgraceful that a coastal dune which is rich in unique natural environment is not protectedIt is nothing short of greed
Sandra McDonald’s (Sedgefield, 2025-04-01)
#100
I want the dunes protectedAnnette Diedericks (Bredasdorp, 2025-04-01)
#101
The coast is being damaged out of greed.Renée Conradie (Stilbaai, 2025-04-01)
#103
I am a Biodiversity Conservation manager and are supporting the garden route in clearing Invasive Alien Plants and also advocating for rehabilitation projects in the area.Ashley Baloyi (Capetown, 2025-04-01)
#105
It’s not the place for such a develpoment. We don,t want another Plett or Wildernes with al the grotesque mansions. Leave us aloneHelene Huyzers (Pretoria, 2025-04-01)
#110
The primary coastal dunes are under serious threat throughout the garden route.Michael Semple (Sedgefield, 2025-04-01)
#117
High rise development spoils dune zonesLisa Barrett (Johannesburg, 2025-04-01)
#120
Die natuur moet bewaar word en nie deur gierige mense vernietig word nieZeda Janse van Rensburg (Pretoria, 2025-04-01)
#121
Desyroying our beautiful natureElize King (Sedgefield, 2025-04-01)
#123
I’m signing because I agree with Tessa that the coastal area around Sedgefield should be developed with sensitivity to the fragility of the coastline. If this development goes ahead it will form a presedent to easily develop another block of units and the dune areas will deteriorate.Marichen Niemann (Whangarei, 2025-04-01)
#124
TestingTessa Joubert (Sedgefield, 2025-04-01)
#125
I am objecting against the propsed developmentSedgefield’s infrastructure and higly sensitive ecological environment will suffer severely as a result of this development
Nicki Liebenberg (Sedgefield, 2025-04-01)
#128
We have to seriously start protecting the natural environment as all the development is killing nature as God created it.Willemien Olivier (Stilfontein., 2025-04-01)
#129
I'm signing the petition because I believe the development is inappropriate for the position, and does not suit the environment. Appears inaccessible too.Lilith Seals (Sedgefield, 2025-04-01)
#130
The Sedgefield dunes are a unique ecosystem. Dunes and unspoiled coastline is rare as human habitation and resort living has destroyed most dunes around the world.I have deep respect for Tessa and those standing up for the environment in Sedgefield. Brave activists such as Tessa are fighting for a sustainable future for all of us, and are doing so at great cost.
I am honoured to have met Tessa and her knowledge and passion for our world are remarkable and should be embraced by the municipality and Province.
Sedgefield residents have objected, this is not in the community’s interest. The courts must listen and protect those who speak out.
Kristin Kallesen (Midrand, 2025-04-01)
#132
I want to support a person who is contributing a lot to preserving our fragile environment. I also know the pain of being sued by rogue developers (a SLAPP suit).Dobek Pater (Johannesburg, 2025-04-01)
#134
I'm signing this because our coastline has become overdeveloped. Protecting and maintaining our environment takes precedence over profit-driven developers. High-density development without adequate infrastructure is a recipe for disaster not only for the environment but also an adverse effect on the quality of life of the community. Overburdened roads, water, sewerage systems, electricity, schools will not bode well for the area.Julie Methven (Johannesburg, 2025-04-01)
#137
Our environment needs to be protected for our long term health and prosperityKeith Bush (Johannesburg, 2025-04-01)
#138
I believe in her cause. Go TessaLanie Farrelly (Sedgefield, 2025-04-01)
#139
We need to protect our environment. Once it’s gone gone forever.Kathleen du Toit (Johannesburg, 2025-04-01)
#140
SLAPP suits need to be stopped. They are merely vehicles used for intimidation purposes and have nothing to do with the matter at hand - environmental protectionMadeleine Hicklin (Johannesburg, 2025-04-01)
#141
Natural resources should be protected and cherished. Once biodiversity is lost it is gone forever. It is time that the people’s voice be heard, not only those of developers who are only interested in short term profits.Alwina Brand (Kyalami, 2025-04-01)
#142
Our coastline need to be responsibly developed.Candice Hobdau (Hoekwil, 2025-04-01)
#143
The coasts and those who. Protect them need to be protected. There are many ways to develop without ruining areas of biodiversity significance.Devon Coetzee (Port Elizabeth, 2025-04-01)
#149
I am a resident and believe in preserving nature and stopping greedy developers from destroying fragile ecosystems.Wayne Dale (Sedgefield, 2025-04-01)
#151
Leave the dunes alone! And stop the SLAPP!Belinda Cooper (Jhb, 2025-04-01)
#152
I am signing because I and my Rhenosterspruit Conservancy committee were sued for over R200m 20 years ago. This was one of the early SLAPP suits. We won. I support Tessa Joubert 100%.Helen Duigan (Tshwane, 2025-04-01)
#153
I agree with all of the above saidMelissa Watson (Sedgefield, 2025-04-01)
#154
Sedgefield is Africa's first 'slow town' which is part of the reason it is one of my family's favourite holiday destinations. We visit Sedgefield to get away from noise and too many people. I am shocked such a development is even being considered. Even more surprised given the negative impact such a development would have on the natural environment of Sedgefield. And all in the name of money. The world has lost so much magnificent nature because of human greed. I hope with all my heart beautiful Sedgefield remains untouched by the incessant push for profitsTanya Tiedje (Johannesburg, 2025-04-01)
#155
I'm signing because we should never just let things slip and this is our delicate environment which can't speak for itself, tired of rich people's greed and lack of care and malicious intentEste Andre (JHB, 2025-04-01)
#156
I own property in Sedgefield and think it is developed to full capacityTrevor Dale (Cape Town, 2025-04-01)
#157
South AfricaAnnie Jones (Sedgefield, 2025-04-01)
#162
People should not be threatened for exercising their constitutional rightsPaul Veltman (Midrand, 2025-04-01)
#164
I agree and support TessaAntoinette Morton (Aberdeen, 2025-04-01)
#167
I am signing because the coastal zone is a public natural zone for everybody to enjoy the scenery and tranquility of nature. It is time that authorities perform their duties with responsibility!Coert Geldenhuys (Pretoria, 2025-04-01)
#171
Not only is this proposed development wrong in terms of the environment and the human population, it is appalling that rational and lawful objection can lead to prosecution.Alison Evans (Wilderness, 2025-04-02)
#172
South AfricaKarin Ritchie (Sedgefield, 2025-04-02)
#173
This area is a very sensitive natural habitat. Needs preservation. Save our beautiful Sedgefield environment for the indigenous wildlife.Natalie Etridge (Sedgefield, 2025-04-02)
#175
I’m signing because we need to save our dunes but to support Tessa in her amazing mission! WeMargi Brocklehurst (Sandton, 2025-04-02)
#178
Large scale development on dunes will destroy the surrounding ecosystem.Gregory Burke (Pletteneberg Bay, 2025-04-02)
#181
Protecting delicate natural surroundings, conservation key.Lyn BEATON (Knysna, 2025-04-02)
#182
I am signing because the protection of biodiversity is criticalMaya Naumann (Cape Town, 2025-04-02)
#183
I’m appalled at the way in which developers in South Africa get away with building in environmentally fragile habitats, go against the wishes of the community, and ride roughshod over environmental best practice. Environmental guidelines need to be upheld and respected, they have been put in place for very good reason.Helen Moss (Greyton, 2025-04-02)
#185
I'm signing because I care 🙏Nidhi-Amanda Chaitow (Hoekwil, 2025-04-02)
#187
I am signing this because the coastal dune natural area along the Garden Route is home to unique and highly sensitive species and biodiversity , and should not be put at risk by the development. We as Concerned citizens and environmentalists like Tessa Joubert should have every right to state their objections and be given equal voice to expand on the reasons, and not be silenced by legal threats. Please stop this development and lawsuit.Rossana Pancaldi (Knysna, 2025-04-02)
#188
I am totally opposed to building on such a fragile and important dune area. It should be a protected space for nature. If that dune ever collapsed with the weight of buildings it would be disastrous.Paul Van de Sande (Sedgefield, 2025-04-02)
#189
Wise men don't build on sand. There are so many negative issues on all fronts... social, environmental, aesthetic, ecological, constructional and generational. The government should be upholding it's own NEMA and ICMA and SPLUMA regulations.Wendy Dewberry (Knysna, 2025-04-02)
#190
It's a ecological coastal dune zone. Please protect it.Lissinda Pretorius (Cape Town, 2025-04-02)
#191
I do NOT believe we have the infrastructure for growth and such developments place adverse effects on our natural environment.Dianne Johnston (Sedgefield, 2025-04-02)
#193
when I casme here in 2010 there were signs stating that the dune areas were protected and not to even walk on them. They are so fragile and the weight of a whole housing development could see it sliding into the sea.JANICE Gibson (Sedgefield (6573), 2025-04-02)
#194
Those in decision making positions have a duty of care .... not ownership ... of decision making. Human rights and environmental rights are enshrined in our Constitution. Bullying tactics are those of cowards ... It takes strength and integrity to make honourable decisionsJulie Carlisle (Plettenberg Bay, 2025-04-02)
#195
I support this petition because:* the development is not in line with the SDF which calls for protection of natural assets in environmentally sensitive areas - like primary dunes
* the Tribunal applied it mind and turned down this development, providing sound policy, planning and environmental reasons for doing so. The KM over turned this ruling without providing any sound policy, planning or environmental grounds for doing so.
* given the above, and the mayor’s comment that its decision to approve was “cast in stone” the KM’s decision is unacceptable in terms of proper municipal governance.
*
Melanie Gosling (Knysna, 2025-04-02)
#197
For all the reasons as set out in the petition ay6tCathy Weideman (Knysna, 2025-04-02)
#198
We need to stop prioritising profit over protectionLisa Lowth (Knysna, 2025-04-02)
#200
I amIn agreement with all the environmental concerns, has a EIA been completed and if so where can the public read the results of this. Has a public participation process been followed ??
The high density of the project is unacceptable. I will back Tessa Joubert in any way possible.
Debbie Stanley (Knysna, 2025-04-02)