Planning for environmental sustainability and social equity in South Africa: the case of the Dwars River Valley, Stellenbosch Municipality

Abstract

Post apartheid planning practice aims to resolve the inequality that resulted from the hyperrational comprehensive model of planning executed during apartheid via a participatory, integrated approach. The Integrated Development Planning model was created to manifest the goals of social and spatial equality while taking into account principles set forth in Agenda 21. This thesis attempted to determine the relevance of the present planning model in achieving the stated goals of social equity and environmental sustainability, within the Dwars River Valley, Stellenbosch Municipality, Western Cape, South Africa. Utilizing 54 qualitative-based interviews with key stakeholders, results indicate that historically based realities on the ground and ideals of more equitable and sustainable spatial architecture is profoundly challenging. Despite this, the organic emergence of unique coalitions provides evidence that positive change occurs daily and outcomes can only be measured with time.