KNYSNA NEWS - The community of Knysna has just three weeks left to comment on the extensive renovations, additions and alterations proposed for the historic Woodmill Lane – a shopping centre situated in the CBD and long associated with the "days of old".
The proposal, spearheaded by the centre's new owners Nobel Property Group – which belongs to former Springbok coach Harry Viljoen who owns no less than 260 000sq m of commercial property in SA – includes the complete overhaul of the entrances, new paving and doorways, the part-demolition of a building shielding the central square form the parking lot, the uprooting of trees, and erecting roofing over all the open walkways, to name but a few.
According to *draft documents, new building methods, material and technology would be incorporated to keep up with trends and ensure the precinct is "more suited to its time".
Woodmill Lane is spread across two properties set within a predominantly historic area with several historic buildings such as the old Standard Bank, the old sawmill, the old furniture showroom and 30m high steel smokestack. It is stated in the draft document overview of the project that the Woodmill Lane precinct, in which the sawmill building stands today, is identified as being of high importance in terms of historical significance and heritage of the town of Knysna.
But according to an artist's impression (see picture) of the proposed makeover, much of the centre's flooring would be changed to white tiled floors, all walkways would be enclosed as developers cite security concerns and weather protection, the historic gables would be adorned with mirrored backdrops, while transparent screens and new shopfront windows are also put forward as new additions.
It is further proposed that "non-historic buildings be demolished", such as the small kiosk building at the Long Street entrance, as well as part of a building near the parking area to "create open space and increase visibility to courtyard".
The changes mentioned above are but a few of several changes planned for the centre, and residents have already commented that the planned renovations could affect the "cosiness'' and old-world charm of the centre.
Where can the documents be viewed?
* The full draft documents are available for viewing at the town library or an electronic copy can be obtained by emailing andre@architectsetc.com. The public is invited to submit comments regarding the proposals to renovate Woodmill Lane until 15 March 2019.
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