We’re pleased to report that the initiative is on track and that the consultants have delivered Part 1 of the Framework, being the current realities assessment of the village.

The Pringle Bay Village Realities Profile, (Part 1 of the Framework), is a detailed and extensive document, providing a situational analysis of the village from a spatial development perspective. To the best of our knowledge, something like this has never been produced for Pringle Bay before. The added benefit of having this analysis thoroughly documented is that it can be archived and provide a benchmark to refer to in years to come.

There are five sections to the document, briefly summarized below.

Section 1 explores the history of our colourful landscape and the factors that impacted the spatial setting which eventually became what the report refers to as “a place of sanctuary from the original stone ages into modern times.” This section of the report is not an attempt to give a detailed historical account of every aspect of the village but focuses on the historical aspect of the spatial development of the village.

Section 2 looks at the geographical and natural context of the village, located on the south western coastline of the Western Cape, in the Transition Zone of the internationally renowned Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve, and the potential strategic value that potentially may be unlocked from this attribute.

Section 3 assesses the current state of the village from a spatial development perspective, indicating how the land has been used over the decades. This section also highlights interventions that could be implemented to effectively contribute to an enhanced sense of place, without outward expansion of the village.

Section 4 identifies the key issues and challenges that emerged with the spatial, social and economic development of the village throughout its history, and more specifically, during the last century. There are also opportunities that emerged that may be enhanced through a well-considered spatial development framework for the village. These opportunities could be further strengthened through an engaged community and the need for a self-help approach, given the context of the ever-changing public sector investment.

Section 5 outlines the main considerations in developing this new strategic framework for the future of Pringle Bay. These will be outlined in Part 2 of the report. The point is made that this Reality profile clearly points to the value of shaping the future of Pringle Bay “around the identity of a remarkable village sanctuary placed within the Kogelberg Biosphere.”

Should you wish to the read the complete Realities Profile, click on the button below.