Global online petition to save Baakens

[caption id="attachment_36970" align="alignright" width="405"] HIDDEN GEMS: The source catchment of the Baakens is home to several critically endangered plants restricted globally to that area, including Agathosma gonaquensis. Picture: ADRIAAN GROBLER[/caption]

PORT Elizabeth's Baakens River is the centrepiece of a petition launched on Avaaz, a global online campaign facility.

The petition was created to oppose the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality's proposed N2 North development, which comprises 3019 houses, linking roads and assorted businesses.

It is sited at Hunter's Retreat in the source catchment of the Baakens River.

The petition was initiated by landscape architect Rose Buchanan, founder and coordinator of the Save the Baakens Valley (SBV) campaign. She said in her summary of petitioners' concerns the development would encourage urban sprawl and negatively impact on the terrestrial and aquatic biodiversity of the Baakens River.

It would also result in endless pollution and the destruction of unique vegetation.

"Furthermore, it will negatively impact the stormwater system for the city, create soil erosion and place great strain on the existing services."

As of 5pm yesterday 530 people had signed. It was critical that as many people as possible became involved, Buchanan said.

The Avaaz link is accessible at the SBV Facebook page. - Guy Rogers