A "gated" development refers to a physical area or development that is walled or fenced off from its surroundings and where general public access is monitored, controlled, restricted or prevented in any way, often by means of gates or booms at a specific point.
In terms of the policy, the status of existing gated developments (which had been legally approved) will not be affected by the new policy, on condition that they comply with their original conditions of approval.
Only proposals and applications involving gated community components received from February 2008 will be measured against the new guidelines.
The planning and building development management department has reminded residents that the purpose of the policy is to set land-use management guidelines for gated development proposals, not necessarily to address or resolve all safety and security problems experienced by communities.
"The policy's main aim is to protect the integrity of the city's infrastructure and access-way networks,' said Gideon Brand, a senior town planner in the planning and building development management department.
"It therefore attempts to achieve a balance between the need to promote an integrated and open city while still enabling communities to address local safety and security concerns.
"In addition to promoting possible alternative options to gating, the policy also suggests mitigation measures where such proposals are supported."
Development applications or applications for retrospective closure of public land will therefore be assessed in accordance with the criteria and guidelines set in the policy.
Source: capetown.gov.za
Presentation for Seminar
