The Western Cape Department of Public Works is considering the implications of Overstrand Municipal Council’s decision to no longer build a technical school in Sandbaai.
The council’s decision was announced in May after a resolution was taken during special council meeting to rescind the decision to construct a technical school in Long Street, Sandbaai.
In a statement released after the meeting, Overstrand Executive Mayor Dr Annelie Rabie indicated she will approach the Premier of the Western Cape regarding the possibility of moving the school planned on this site, Erf 2825 in Sandbaai, to the Fisherhaven/Hawston area.
She said she would suggest to the Premier that the municipality will consider using the site in Sandbaai for community health purposes as this was a dire need in the growing population in the Greater Hermanus area.
“This decision is supported by the fact that a business park development is already under construction in Hawston as well as the need for a similar school for learners from the Hangklip-Kleinmond area,” Rabie stated.
“A technical school in the new area will also thus complement the business park as well as any other future developments in the Hawston area as these businesses will provide an ideal opportunity for in-service training and resultant jobs. Sites in the Fisherhaven area are already zoned for school purposes.”
She added she is of the opinion that the site in Fisherhaven/Hawston would be more accessible to learners from the Hangklip-Kleinmond area.
The approval of the sale and transfer of the said portion of Remainder Erf 2825 Sandbaai caused quite an outcry from the community, especially the neighbouring property owners of Sandbaai.
From what could be established, the concern was not the establishment of a school on the property, but the type of school. The subsequent objections received from the community, necessitated this report to request the amendment of the relevant Council decision.
It was suggested that other properties in either Hawston or Fisherhaven be investigated for the establishment of specifically a technical school.
Jandré Bakker, spokesperson for the Western Cape Department of Transport and Public Works, confirmed the department was informed of the Overstrand Municipal Council’s decision regarding the technical school on 20 May via email.
“We are considering the implications this decision will have and is not in a position to respond to any details until this consideration process is complete,” he stated.