Eastern Cape
South Africa
Sector
Agriculture & Agri-processing
Energy
Tourism & Leisure
The Blue Crane Route Municipality, (referred to as BCRM) is situated in the Western Region of the Eastern Cape Province. The Western region (Cacadu Regional District) consists of nine local municipalities, of which the Blue Crane is the largest. The BCRM covers an area of approximately 9914 square kilometres and is geographically the largest municipality in the Cacadu district. Ultimately, the BCDA’s focus is on the expansion of the local economy and the creation of as many as possible permanent/temporary employment opportunities and downstream business opportunities for SMME’s. All projects are already aligned with local/provincial government as well as the Industrial Policy Action Plan (IPAP) outcomes.
1) Boschberg Country Estate:
The Boschberg development (Country Estate) was identified by the Blue Crane Development Agency (BCDA) as a key development project that will enable the region to establish itself as a destination activity hub and ultimately, allow growth of the local economy. The Boschberg Country Estate is located in the Boschberg nature reserve, which adds to the uniqueness of the development.
The core development components include:
- Mountain biking estate / residential component (480 plots) / golf course / tourism hub;
- Wellness centre / boutique lodge with 60 – 70 accommodation units, a restaurant and conferencing facilities / activities; and nature reserve.
BCDA’s assessments indicate that a combined initial investment for the entire project of R760.7-million during the construction phase (R417.5-million net of the initial import leakage) will give rise to a multiplied increase in GGP of R425.8-million in the Blue Crane Route area over a period of approximately seven years (at current prices).
A positive ROD was received from DEDEA and the project is about to commence with the construction phase. Several lucrative investment opportunities will arise from the project. A hotel/wellness centre complex will be concessioned at very favourable terms. Another concession will be a wedding venue. The BCDA is also looking for a developer for the Retirement village.
2) Fruit production:
The areas high potential irrigation lands enabled the production and establishment of a fruit industry. The key elements of the fruit production include pomegranate, figs, deciduous fruit and prickly pears. At least 1000ha of pomegranate with full value adding factories will be creating at least 1000 employment opportunities. Several initial orchards have already been established.
3) Alternative energy:
The area could potentially be classified as the hub of South Africa’s alternative energy production. The key elements of the alternative energy initiative include:
- Wind - potential of 750 MW
- Hydro - potential of 40 MW
- Solar - Karoo sun
Investors for the various components have already been secured. The BCDA will possibly be commencing with the first wind farm in the third quarter of 2010. The alternative energy project is worth R8 Billion.
4) Aviation projects:
Skywake:
The BCDA has appointed the aeronautical faculty of Wits University to design South Africa’s first production Light Sport Aircraft. The design has been completed and the mock up is under construction. The BCDA is in partnership with Wits University and the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC). The manufacturing of prototypes is the next phase of Skywake, while
commercial production will take place at the new Somerset East airport. This aircraft will be used as a platform to create a new aircraft and aerospace component manufacturing business in South Africa and is directly aligned with the 2010/11 – 2012/13 Industrial Policy Action Plan.
Light Industrial Park:
There is an urgent need for industrial space in Somerset East. Provision has been made for a new light industrial park within the airport precinct. There are obvious benefits to be had between the industry and the airport. The Park will likewise accommodate the new aircraft manufacturing industry. The BCDA is waiting for a record of decision from DEDEA in order to commence with the project.
Contacts:
For more information, contact Chris Wilken from BCDA on:
Tel: +27 (0) 42 24 300 95
Fax: +27 (0) 42 24 300 97
Mobile: +27 (0) 82 329 4546
Email: infosa@gan.co.za
