Our Vision We also believe that all the residents of the Valley have a special responsibility to act as custodians of this asset. We need to do this to ensure that this unique environment is protected for future generations. The Constantia Valley, part of the Cape Winelands, is an outstanding example of a vineyard cultural landscape enriched by cultural influences accumulated from five Continents (Africa, Asia and the East Indies, Europe and the Americas). Along with natural elements ideally suited for viticulture, it is set in a dramatic environment. It also illustrates the impact of human settlement and agricultural activities and more specifically the production of wine for more than 350 years. It has taken 300 years to create this unique and special cultural landscape and less than 30 years of development to endanger it. High density cluster housing against mountain slopes and on remaining open land, together with relentless consolidation and sub-division of existing properties and insensitive treatment of streetscapes, are changing the character of the area. The cultural landscape of Constantia forms part of the National estate and is a very valuable asset to the City of Cape Town. It will make a substantial contribution to the sustainability of the city as an international tourist destination of choice and a suitable place to live and play, but only if urgent priority is given to manage the present development frenzy. A detailed review of the present and future value of the Constantia Valley has shaped the following: Vision for the Constantia Valley Protect and preserve the natural beauty, history and landscape of the Constantia Valley, one of Cape Town's special places, to enrich the well-being and enjoyment of the people of Cape Town and the world. A vision, however has to be realized and it is therefore imperative that the efforts of the CPOA and its comments on all planning issues, whether they be of huge importance, like the proposed Integrated Zoning Scheme for the City, the preparation of overlay zones or any other planning instruments and policies, should be done in a way that fulfills this. Vision Statement. The on-going task and responsibility of the CPOA will be to understand the relationships between the built and historic environments, the farms, public open space, riverine open space, mountain scenery and boundaries, avenues and streetscapes, to ensure that future development does not further unravel this magic. |
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