Stop High-Density Development in Sedgefield’s Coastal Dunes and Support Tessa Joubert

We, the undersigned — primarily residents and stakeholders of Sedgefield and the broader Knysna Municipality, with support from others who care deeply about protecting this environment — express our firm opposition to the proposed high-density development within the ecologically sensitive coastal dune zone of Sedgefield. This development poses significant threats to our unique natural environment, which is integral to our community’s identity and well-being.

We stand in solidarity with environmental advocate Tessa Joubert, who is currently facing a R5-million defamation lawsuit from the developer, Sandpiper Nature Reserve, for exercising her lawful right to object to this project. Such legal actions — commonly referred to as SLAPP suits (Strategic Litigation Against Public Participation) — are intended to intimidate and silence citizens who speak out in defence of the environment. We strongly condemn any effort to suppress public participation in decisions that affect the shared natural heritage of our community.

The proposed development would see the construction of 52 two- and three-story residential units on a 1.153-hectare site within a dune ecosystem that serves as both a biodiversity hotspot and a natural buffer against coastal erosion and climate events.

This fragile environment must be protected, not paved over.

Moreover, this development runs contrary to the spirit of the Knysna Municipality’s own Spatial Development Framework, which calls for sustainability and preservation of natural assets — not overdevelopment in ecologically critical areas. Knysna’s Municipality Tribunal refused all the development proposals, but this was overturned by the Municipality with the Mayor stating the decision to approve “is cast in stone”.  

We therefore petition the Knysna Municipality to:
1. Halt the approval process for the proposed high-density development in the Sedgefield coastal dune zone.
2. Review or conduct an independent, transparent, and comprehensive environmental impact assessment before any further steps are taken.
3. Uphold the rights of community members to participate in environmental decision-making without fear of intimidation or legal harassment.
4. Promote development that aligns with long-term environmental stewardship, community well-being, and the principles of sustainable coastal management. 

By signing this petition, we affirm our commitment to safeguarding the natural heritage of Sedgefield for present and future generations — and to standing with those who defend it.

https://groundup.org.za/article/developer-sues-sedgefield-environmentalist-for-r5-million

https://www.netwerk24.com/netwerk24/nuus/omgewing/ontwikkelaar-eis-r5-m-van-aktivis-wat-huise-by-kusduine-keer-20250322