Department of Geography and Environmental Studies

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Browsing Department of Geography and Environmental Studies by browse.metadata.advisor "Claassen, P. E."

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    The evolution of land use and development control and their relevance in a future South Africa
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 1992-11) Olivier, Jan Gysbert Maritz; Claassen, P. E.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Dept. of Geography & Environmental Studies.
    ENGLISH SUMMARY: Modern land use planning and development control originated late in the previous century as a reaction to the poor living conditions created by the industrial revolution. Many types of controlling measures were formed and evolved through the years into the present systems of control. The question is whether these controls still have relevance today. In this study project the evolution of control in Britain, the USA and South Africa is traced, and the present systems in these countries evaluated. The British land use planning system of compulsory development plans and the obtaining of planning permission in any development has experienced some degree of deregulation of planning controls in the 1980s. This led to greater freedom for prospective developers, although there still is a strong feeling that development control must have a stronger, more clear relationship with definite policy. In the absence of policy, control can become arbitrary and ineffective and, instead of reducing uncertainty, enhances and intensifies it. The principle central to US land use planning is the preparation of comprehensive plans, which addresses total socio-economic-physical development, thereby leading development and not restricting it. The most important method of implementing planning is zoning, which can be said to be the 'end' of the planning process and aimed mainly at control. Zoning is therefore the principle legislative land use control instrument in the US. South African land use planning and development control evolved within a unique political framework, whereby different systems were applied for different races. Traditionally, land use planning has been done mainly through town planning, which has zoning as its central principle. Town planning (zoning) schemes create a mechanism whereby the use of land can be controlled. In contrast to American and British practice, South African town planning is often restricted to land use planning and therefore tends to be restrictive rather than offering positive methods or solutions for economic development and the alleviation of poor living conditions. The present situation in South Arica, where mass urbanization, unemployment and poverty affect the lives of millions of people, leads to the belief that less rigid and inflexible control measures can create an environment where informal activities will help in the social upliftment of these deprived people. The existing planning system was therefore found not to be very effective in poor areas. There is a real need for a system to provide for control in highly formal "first world" areas and informal "third world" settlements. The conflict between 'more control' and 'less control' is central in this need. In the study it was, however, concluded that restrictive controls should be kept to a minimum and that land use control should be separated from the current over-abundant control measures in order to help create self-sufficient and sustainable communities. A more innovative approach is need, where town planning is more pro-active and not just an effort to cope with day to day problems.
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    Sustainable utilisation of the Jonkershoek Valley
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2000-12) Calitz, Coenraad Werner; Claassen, P. E.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences. Dept. of Geography & Environmental Studies.
    ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Jonkershoek is a scenic valley situated on the south-eastern periphery of Stellenbosch in the Western Cape. The study area of around 62 square kilometres has a pleasant rural atmosphere that can be ascribed to a unique combination of cultural and natural elements. It is in the national interest that these characteristics be preserved for posterity. This study represents an investigation into the viability of the sustainable utilisation of the valley, for the benefit of current and future residents and visitors alike. Firstly, a study was made of different approaches in environmental ethics in an effort to find a frame of reference against which people make decision that impact on the environment. The regulatory and planning framework was assessed to establish whether it was sufficient to protect the environment and people. A population profile was compiled to form a picture of the socio-economic conditions in the valley. Finally, a survey was conducted by testing the needs and expectation of residents against several development and conservation issues. Practitioners from the planning field were also involved in this survey. Resource conservation and development seems to be the most appropriate ethical approach for sustainable development. However, sustainable utilisation will only be possible if a balance is found between economic efficiency, environmental integrity and human well-being. It has been established that sufficient measures are in place to protect people and the environment and that integrated development planning was instrumental in this regard. The biggest shortcoming was on economic level and this is reflected in the socio-economic gap between landowners and previously disadvantaged communities. The sustainable utilisation of the Jonkershoek valley is attainable, on condition that the identified shortcomings are addressed through the utilisation of existing and potential development and conservation opportunities. In this assignment a number of suggestions are made that could promote this process. The sustainable utilisation of the Jonkershoek valley is an attainable ideal that requires the dedication of the entire community.