The City has rejected a rezoning application for a backpackers lodge in Strand after a site inspection revealed illegal structures on the two plots.
The owner, Giuliano Giacovazzi, said he intended to use the space for what he describes as a “youth travel industry revolution” to kickstart and house the Revival Project in Strand.
Giacovazzi, director of Hostival - “a global leader in the youth travel market” - said he has invested about R4million.
“Those that have worked with me will be happy to confirm I am an asset in the travel industry and my new ambition is to be an asset to the social implications in my new community of operation.
“We've tried to do the very same for Gordon’s Bay but our efforts have been rejected on an insignificant technicality that has not even considered the social and economic value lost,” Giacovazzi said.
Mayoral committee member for transport and urban development Brett Herron said the application for temporary departure was submitted on January 6.
“An application was made for a temporary departure in order to operate a backpackers' lodge. The application was submitted and the Municipal Planning Tribunal resolved to refuse the application on June 27.”
The application is in the planning appeal process.