Update

GEORGE NEWS - The Garden Route Dam Action Group (Gardag) has made significant progress in its High Court application for a review of the environmental authorisation for the controversial development proposed at the Garde Route Dam. 

This is according to a statement issued by the organisation on Tuesday 8 August.

"Gardag has successfully signed and commissioned an extensive 100-page founding affidavit, which marks a crucial milestone in the legal process," said the chairperson, Desiree du Preez.

In July, the notice of motion was served on the minister and director of the Environmental Affairs and Development Planning Department, and George Municipality, signalling the official start of the review proceedings.

"Gardag as a non-profit organisation extends an invitation to people or organisations to apply to join the proceedings as an amicus curiae (friend of the court) or interested parties who have a unique contribution in assisting the Court with the constitutional environmental issues involved. This will encourage diverse perspectives to contribute to the case," said Du Preez.

"We appeal to the public to support our efforts. Donations are vital to sustaining the review application and having our voices heard."

For more information or the bank details, send an e-mail to gardag21@gmail.com.

Gardag's move to resort to legal action follows the rejection of all appeals against the environmental approval for the development granted by the Western Cape Environmental Affairs and Development Planning Department to George Municipality in 2022.

The development proposal includes a commercial waterfront, a residential component and a university. 

One of the biggest concerns among appellants is potential pollution of the dam water by the development.

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