The Langvlei Lake in the Garden Route National Park, a jewel of natural beauty in the Southern Cape, South Africa, faces a significant threat. Martin & East, a Construction Company recently awarded a tender for road improvements on the N2 from Kaaimans Gorge through Wilderness, plans to set up a Site office, Laboratory, store fuel tankers, and repair trucks on land adjoining Langvlei Lake. This Agricultural land (erf 10/189) is adjacent to a Ramsar site, signifying its international importance as a wetland.

The plan to use this specific site is alarming for multiple reasons. The intended location is 6 kilometers from the nearest main road, the N2, requiring access over a single-lane bridge with a 6-ton weight limit and predominantly via a poorly maintained gravel road that serves the Rondevlei rural community. This infrastructure is not equipped to handle heavy industrial traffic, posing a risk to both environmental safety and local residents.

Most concerning is the potential environmental impact and that no permission has been obtained to rezone the Agricultural property to Industrial use. No residents or neighbours have been informed about this

With fuel tankers stationed so close to Langvlei Lake, there is a heightened risk of fuel spills with oil & toxic residues from the site contaminating the lake's delicate ecosystem. Langvlei is part of a Ramsar wetland, recognized internationally for its importance, especially for birdlife. Any contamination could have catastrophic effects on the biodiversity that depends on this sensitive habitat. Trucks as well as extra vehicles utilizing this road will encounter bushbuck, lynx and other wildlife with dire consequences for nature.

We call upon the relevant authorities, the George Municipality & its town planning department  and environmental agencies, to reconsider the placement of this Industrial site so close to this unique and precious eco-region visited by nature-loving tourists. Alternative sites closer to the N2 with direct access should be identified and utilized to prevent unnecessary risk.

This petition aims to protect the Wilderness Lakes area from irreversible ecological damage, ensuring it remains a pristine natural environment and a source of pride for the local community. Sign this petition to show your support for preserving our irreplaceable natural heritage.