Franschhoek can be divided into three distinct areas according to its landscape and associated features. The three main H FRANSCHHOEK elements that form the boundaries of these areas are the various sets of mountains, river networks and roads (see Landscape Character diagram). Views that constantly change Areas as one moves through the area add to the complexity of Franschhoek as a cultural landscape. Patterns are predominantly influenced by the presence of vineyards and remnant plantations on the higher mountainous slopes. As its name implies, Franschhoek is strongly associated with French Huguenot settlers at the Cape. Franschhoek Cul de Sac (H01) H FRANSCHHOEK

Landscape Character Areas

The historic town of Franschhoek, and the and then again through vegetated the landscape. Many historic sites have landscape cul-de-sac behind it, is framed clusters next to the road. Views towards been recorded, making this a special by the Wemmershoek, Franschhoek the mountains are constantly changing. cultural landscape with layers of history H FRANSCHHOEK and Dassenberg mountains, The road The area against the Franschhoek frozen into static features. The remains and approaching the town from the west Mountains has a distinct grain of large reuse of watermills is a fine example of this. progresses through a series of open views windbreak trees around land units where Historic Franschhoek towards these mountains and enclosed there are fruit orchards. Organic fingers of H01-H09 vegetated edges. It transitions from vegetation give these land units a close- vineyards (with edge conditions including knit feel. Vineyards and evenly spaced a combination of fences and walls close farmyards with irrigation dams are the to the road) to structures at a distance, elements that make up the pattern within

H Franschhoek Landscape Unit Rating H01 H02 H03 H05 H06 H07 H08 H09 Item Item Value Weighted Value Weighted Value Weighted Value Weighted Value Weighted Value Weighte Value Weighte Value Weighte Protected areas 10 Critical Biodiversity Ecological area 9 Ecolofical support areas 7 agriculture 4 Urban 1 20% 9 1.8 9 1.8 9 1.8 10 2 8 1.6 6 1.2 8 1.6 8 1.6 Viewshed, Scene, Diversity, enclosure, Aesthetic unity, colour, texture, balance, proportion, form 20% 10 2 6 1.2 8 1.6 6 1.2 8 1.6 5 1 9 1.8 6 1.2 Age, Pattern representivity and Historic accosiation, rarity, condition 25% 10 2.5 4 1 8 2 4 1 9 2.25 4 1 9 2.25 7 1.75 Meaning and cultural accosiations, Social Church, School, Creche, recreational, community 10% 8 0.8 4 0.4 4 0.4 5 0.5 6 0.6 4 0.4 4 0.4 4 0.4 Tourism and agricultural potential High Economical soil suitability 9 medium soil suitability 7 Fragmented 5 Disturbed 2 25% 8 2 7 1.75 9 2.25 6 1.5 8 2 7 1.75 8 2 7 1.75 Degree of acceptable 100% 9.10 6.15 8.05 6.2 8.05 5.35 8.05 6.7

NCW 0- 2 Grade 3c 2 to 4.9 Grade 3b 5 to 7.9 Grade 3a 8 to 10 Grade 2 8.5 to 10 H01 (9.1) Grade II

HISTORIC FRANSCHHOEK

H01 Franschhoek Cul-de-Sac The main structure of this land unit is formed by the Franschhoek mountains which create Towards the eastern boundary of this land unit, the Guelke map shows a cluster of early a sense of enclosure, dominated by saddle formations and dramatic peaks including freehold land grants allocated between 1657 and 1750. A number of significant heritage Bushmans Castle and Bushmans Tooth. A number of smaller drainage lines with their sites were recorded. Burgundy is an exemplary Cape Dutch complex dating from the late associated ecological support areas run down the mountain sides and feed into the 1700’s in a superb scenic and landscape setting comprising avenues, groves, orchards, Franschhoek River. Large areas on the upper reaches of the mountain have critical and vineyards. La Bourgonge is well sited with an alignment of mature Oak trees, while biodiversity areas that are still in a natural condition. The soils in the central area, mainly La Petite Dauphine has significance for its landscape more than the structures within associated with the Franschhoek River, are very suitable for agriculture. Two roads link it, and La Dauphine is well-sited within its context with grand views. Other sites include: Franschhoek to its surrounding areas: the Robertsvlei Road to the west and the Lambrechts Mount Rochelle, Mon Repos, Keerweder and La Bri. An historic outspan area, cemetery Road (Olifantshoek Pass) to the east. This landscape unit terminates against the main and the finely placed Huguenot Memorial adds to the significance of this landscape road through Franschhoek (R45), where it forms an integral part of the scenic quality unit. Clusters of workers’ houses are found within this unit, and although the buildings are and sense of place within the urban node. Views open between buildings towards the mostly in a poor condition, these clusters are well absorbed within the landscape as a mountains as a picturesque backdrop. Plantation remnants are found on the higher unified whole. slopes of the mountain close to the Franschhoek Pass with expansive views back over This landscape unit has a high level of ecological significance with the resilience to absorb the town. The pattern of this landscape is made up of smaller rectangular blocks with change as a unified whole. It has a high degree of aesthetic and historic significance. intermittent farm complexes that are woven together by natural fingers leading from Many of the recorded sites are significant in relation to the scenic and natural features the mountain, creating a well-balanced and fine texture. The main land use consists of and thus contribute to the resilience of this landscape unit; a rare characteristic. It pasture land, vineyards and orchards with strong windbreak edges. The resilience of this would be a great loss if established landscape features are threatened by large-scale landscape lies in its ability to absorb change well over the years. The large lush trees add development. This landscape unit is one of the largest areas to be grouped as one unit, to the sense of enclosure found within the cul-de-sac of the Franschhoek mountains. a significant value to protect.

Franschhoek Womans Memorial H01 FRANSCHHOEK CUL-DE-SAC A ECOLOGICAL B AESTHETIC This landscape unit has a high level of ecological significance with the resilience Significance: Significance: to absorb change as a unified whole. It has a high degree of aesthetic and historic A number of smaller drainage lines with This landscape unit terminates against the significance. Many of the recorded sites are significant in relation to the scenic and their associated ecological support areas main road through Franschhoek (R45), natural features and thus contribute to the resilience of this landscape unit; a rare run down the mountain sides and feed where it forms an integral part of the characteristic. It would be a great loss if established landscape features are threatened into the Franschhoek River. Large areas scenic quality and sense of place within by large-scale monotonous development. This landscape unit is one of the largest on the upper reaches of the mountain the urban node. areas to be grouped as one unit, a significant value to protect. have critical biodiversity areas that are still in a natural condition. Views open up between buildings MAIN AIM: CONSERVE - The existing character is to be conserved (maintained). towards the mountains as a picturesque This may require both protection and maintenance of the significant elements and Development Criteria: backdrop. Plantation remnants are found features as well as appropriate development thereof. It includes the promotion of ● Support protected areas and existing on the higher slopes of the mountain close these landscapes and places for the appreciation and continuity of their cultural nature reserves, with their landforms to the Franschhoek Pass with expansive significance. and areas of critical biodiversity, views back over the town. which strongly contribute to the MAIN VALUE: HISTORIC, AESTHETIC, ECOLOGIC - This landscape unit as per its statement “wilderness domain” of the winelands The pattern of this landscape is made of significance enjoys a degree of rarity within the winelands. The aesthetic quality of cultural landscape (See the Foothills up of smaller rectangular blocks with this landscape unit adds to its resilience, and the densely vegetated character absorbs Conservation System). intermittent farm complexes that are development. Loss of this and the fragmentation of this unit should be prevented. ● Maintain ecological support areas woven together by natural fingers to sites of heritage significance leading from the mountain, creating a CONSERVATION SYSTEM: This Landscape unit is an enclosed land parcel within the (particularly river corridors). Only well-balanced and fine texture. winelands towards the end of three Grade II scenic routes. The mountain tops in this permit development that responds to landscape unit is a protected area already, but the Foothills conservation system is the heritage sensitivity of the site, and The resilience of this landscape lies in its also triggered. Foreground criteria applies to the 0-500m buffer around the Grade II that will not dominate, or irreparably ability to absorb change well over the scenic routes. It also has a coverage of more than 70%, and medium visibility in view of damage the environments adjacent years. The large lush trees add to the four other Grade II scenic routes. to these heritage sites. Optimize the sense of enclosure found within the cul- scenic and recreational opportunities de-sac of the Franschhoek mountains. DEVIATED LAND USE/USES THAT WILL LIKELY ERODE LANDSCAPE CHARACTER: Large scale provided by water courses and larger industrial structures, mining, substation, landfill, parking lot (without mitigation), business water bodies, especially where they Development Criteria: park, isolated shopping centres, gated communities, suburban sprawl were enjoyed through historic right of LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT way. ● The high mountains in the study ● Promote transitions or buffers, and area are landforms vital to its overall DEVELOPMENT CRITERIA Grade II larger connected systems, to nature landscape character. They enclose Please refer to the Conservation Management reserves (see Foothill conservation the valleys and settlements of heritage section of the CMP for general guidelines, system). To protect important habitats, significance. Prevent development Foothill CS explanatory text/terms, and the process provide increased opportunities for on visually sensitive mountain slopes behind developing the Development Criteria. recreation and the traditional use of and ridgelines in order to preserve Green Transition CS The Development Criteria sheets are based on Landscape and Townscape typologies the landscape. the continuity of the mountains as a ● Respect development setbacks from backdrop. Scenic Route CS found within the Stellenbosch Municipality. The focus is on the current heritage elements water resources to provide protection ● Limit cultivation and development on and character of the landscapes, and the from flooding as well as creating upper mountain slopes greater than criteria are discussed under the five value scenic and ecological corridors (see 1:4 to protect scenic resources and lines (ecologic, aesthetic, historic, social legislation in place for river corridors). water catchments, and to minimise and economic). They should also be read visual scarring and erosion. Propose in conjunction with the Heritage Inventory ● ‘no-go’ development areas above (individual sites) and the Conservation Systems ● the 380m contour line. (Appendix 3 of the CMP). ● ● Retain view-lines and vistas focused ● on prominent natural features ● such as mountain peaks, as these ● D are important place-making and C HISTORIC Significance: The main structure of this land unit is formed by the Franschhoek mountains which orientating elements for experiencing wherever possible. create a sense of enclosure, dominated by saddle formations and dramatic peaks the cultural landscape. They are including Bushmans Castle and Bushmans Tooth. not only important for landscape PLANTING PATTERN character, but also for water security, ● Traditional planting patterns should Two roads link Franschhoek to surrounding areas: the Robertsvlei Road to the west and and biodiversity. be protected by ensuring that existing the Lambrechts Road (Olifantshoek Pass) to the east. ● Maintain the balance of Urban, Rural tree alignments and copses are not and Wilderness areas. It is the interplay needlessly destroyed, but reinforced Towards the eastern boundary of this land unit, a cluster of early freehold land grants and relationship between these or replaced, thereby enhancing were allocated between 1657 and 1750 (see Guelke map), many to French protestant that give the study area its unique traditional patterns with appropriate immigrants (Huguenots), hence the name Franschhoek. character (refer to the Conservation species. Systems). ● The felling of mature exotic or A number of significant heritage sites were recorded. La Bourgonge is well sited with ● The construction of over-scaled indigenous trees within residential an alignment of mature Oak trees, while La Petite Dauphine has significance for its private dwellings and other structures areas should be avoided. Instead landscape more than the structures within it, and La Dauphine is well-sited within its in locations of high visual significance, continuous tree canopies should be context with grand views. Other sites include: Mount Rochelle, Mon Repos, Keerweder and on visually-exposed promontories, encouraged, especially within urban and La Bri. Burgundy (granted 1713, gable dated 1791) is an exemplary late 18th ridges and ridgelines, should be environments. century Cape Dutch complex in a superb scenic and landscape setting comprising discouraged. Preferred locations are ● Significant avenues should be avenues, groves, orchards, and vineyards. There is a wapad (historical wagon road) sites that have already been settled protected as a heritage component. running through a field on the property. (for instance consolidated around ● In some cases, remnant planting farmyards, or near villages and patterns (even single trees) uphold An historic outspan area, cemetery and the finely placed Huguenot Memorial adds to hamlets), or sites ‘tucked into’ the the historic character of an area. the significance of this landscape unit. landscape, using the same criteria for Interpretation of these landscape site-location as the adjacent, older features as historic remnants should Development Criteria: farmsteads. occur. HUNTER GATHERERS/HERDERS ● Land use related to agricultural use ● Many of the strongest planting patterns ● Names of mountain passes and water courses that reference a traditional use during but with large visual intrusions / clutter that contribute to the historic character the time of the hunter-gatherers and herders of the Cape should be celebrated. (such as timber yards and nurseries) of landscape and townscape units, Public access to these sites should be encouraged. should be carefully assessed. are within road reserves and on public ● Sensitive development that interprets the narrative of historic movement routes. Mitigation measures should be put land. A maintenance and re-planting Drover routes, where they are still known and used for a similar use or as public open in place before any development or plan should be developed. space, have value and should be retained. rezoning is permitted to allow such ● All archaeological material is protected in terms of the NHRA. uses. PLANTATION ● Encourage mitigation measures ● Rehabilitation of forestry areas FREEHOLD (for instance use of vegetation) to should be applied in the same way ● Evidence of the earliest occupation of the landscape is not always visible. Should “embed” existing over-scaled private rehabilitation is conducted in mining any be uncovered, the provincial heritage authority (HWC) should be notified and dwellings within the surrounding operations - from the onset. This engaged with to determine appropriate action. agricultural landscape. includes adaptive reuse strategies for ● The layout of the first freehold land grants often correlates with surviving features at ● Maintain larger unified land areas to the sawmill structure. a landscape level. If such a structure is recognised, it should be maintained. protect larger landscape continuums ● Forestry service roads are difficult to ● Any remaining structures or fabric associated with the first freehold land grants that display a unified scenic character. rehabilitate. Instead these roads are should be protected, and included as part of the heritage inventory. ● It is recommended that visual part of the historic layering that tells the ● Alterations and additions to conservation-worthy structures should be sympathetic permeability should be maintained story of forestry and could be used for to their architectural character and period detailing, but should also align with towards mountains, valleys and another purpose such as recreation. Burra Charter Article 22 (see introduction of this section). across open, and cultivated fields. ● Another method of rehabilitation (a) Discourage the use of solid walls could entail the production of OUTSPAN around vineyards and agricultural traditional plant resources, where ● Surviving examples (wagon routes, outspans, and commonage), where they are areas in public view and along scenic indigenous knowledge of plants and owned in some public or communal way (or by a body responsible for acting in the routes. (b) Views should be framed foraging could be applied. public interest) and where they are found to be actively operating in a communal and enhanced by development ● D way, will have cultural and heritage value and should be enhanced and retained. ● Commonages and outspans were located at water points, and these places were likely gathering points before the arrival of colonists and continued to provide communal resources. In the mid-20th century many old Commonages came under the ownership of the Municipality, and have since been rented out to private individuals or organisations. ● The Municipality should facilitate the use of common land in a way that promotes the well- being and quality of life of the public. These sites can play a restorative role within the community, for instance who have limited alternative opportunities for recreation. ● No residential or industrial structures should be permitted on commonage land. ● The scale of roads (especially those that align with historic wagon routes) should be the minimum possible. Insensitive hard elements can compromise the rural character of a landscape as a whole. ● Maintain traditional movement patterns across rural landscapes or to places of socio-historical value. (a) Avoid privatization or creation of barriers to traditional access routes. (b) Retain old roadways, which have been replaced by newer roads, for use as recreation trails.

18TH CENTURY WERF ● Respect traditional werf settlement patterns by considering the entire werf as the D SOCIAL component of significance. This includes the backdrop of the natural landscape Significance: against which it is sited, as well as its spatial structure. Any development that Clusters of workers’ houses are found impacts the inherent character of the werf component should be discouraged. within this unit, and although the buildings ● Interventions on the werf must respect the layout, scale, massing, hierarchy, are mostly in a poor condition, these alignments, access, landscaping and setting. clusters are well absorbed within the ● Historical layering must be respected and protected. Alterations and additions landscape as a unified whole. to conservation-worthy structures should be sympathetic to their architectural character and period detailing. Inappropriate ‘modernisation’ of conservation- Development Criteria: worthy structures and traditional werfs should be prevented. Inappropriate SETTLEMENT PATTERN maintenance can compromise historic structures. Heritage expertise is required ● Respect existing patterns, typologies enjoyment of all members of the where appropriate. and traditions of settlement-making public. This is particularly true when ● Distinguish old from new but ensure visual harmony between historical fabric and by promoting the continuity of these considering any new development new interventions in terms of appropriate scale, massing, form and architectural heritage features. These include; proposals. (a) Promote public treatment, without directly copying these details. (a) indigenous; (b) colonial; and (c) footpaths across the cultivated ● Encourage development that prolongs the longevity of historic family farms as an current living heritage in the form of landscape. (b) Restore areas of increasingly rare typology. tangible and intangible associations recreation, especially where the ● Any development that threatens the inherent character of family burial grounds to place. public has traditionally enjoyed rights should be discouraged. ● The relocation of farm labour to of access. Action might include the ● Encourage the multifunctional use of existing heritage sites and resources with housing settlements should be removal of fences and walls, where it different but sensitive new uses. Development and adaptive re-use that caters for discouraged. Where structures are still is appropriate. (c)Prevent privatisation the integration of different modes of access and a greater diversity of users should used for workers housing, the historic of natural places that form part of the be encouraged. use thereof has value, and should be historical public open space resource ● Encourage intervention to revive heritage features in decline, by engaging with protected as far as possible. network. (d) Allow for sustainable, innovative development proposals where appropriate, and considering sensitive traditional use of natural places for adaptive reuse strategies for each, specific heritage resource. RECREATION recreational, spiritual and resource- ● Adaptive strategies need to take the surroundings as well as the structures into ● It is recommended that physical collection purposes. account. permeability to communal resources ● Where practical, encourage ● Where the historic function of a building is still intact, the function has heritage value such as rivers and mountains is managed access to wilderness and should be protected. maintained and enhanced, for the areas on the higher slopes. This E ECONOMIC Significance: The soils in the central area, mainly associated with the Franschhoek River, are very suitable for agriculture (viticulture).

The main land use consists of pasture land, vineyards and orchards with strong will allow residents and visitors to windbreak edges. the winelands opportunities to experience the wilderness domain, Development Criteria: which is a key component within ● Care should be taken that vineyards the cultural landscape as a whole, are not needlessly destroyed, and to experience the sense of and replaced by non-agricultural interconnectedness of the wilderness, development. The potential agricultural and urban domains agricultural use of the land should be through views from the upper slopes. retained for the future. (See the conservation systems ● Fruit orchards are associated with of Green Transitions and Foothills windbreak trees (see T10.3 in the Conservation). CMP for windbreak species) which ● Always use existing roads and form distinctive strong lines on the pathways, such as old forestry service landscape. In cases where the roads, before any new routes are orchard has lost its function, to retain established. As much wilderness area its heritage values the windbreak trees as possible must be left intact. should be kept and new development ● The principle of ‘tread lightly’ in any could be included within existing activity (and associated development blocks. requirements e.g. toilets for major ● Developments that promote the events) in this domain should be continuity of the core function of emphasised. agriculture within the Stellenbosch ● Make sure the required provision for winelands should be promoted. the rehabilitation and maintenance ● Cultural sites associated with 20th of the slopes used for traditional and century settlement and farming recreational purposes is in place. practices should be protected, ● Mountain slopes have been used particularly church and farm school for traditional practices for many sites that occur at the intersection of years, and care should be taken that farm roads. The displacement of farm any significant cultural sites, such as employees to nearby townships results burials and veldkos/medicinal plant in the loss of integrity of their former resources, are not disturbed. dwellings. Natural vegetation H02 (6.15) Grade IIIb along stream

HISTORIC FRANSCHHOEK

encroachment into natural buffer Evenly distributed homes (new development) HO2 Olifantshoek Pass Situated between H01 and H04 (two similar units), the main structural element is the town of Franschhoek, adding an interesting dynamic between two historically loaded Franschhoek mountains with the Olifantshoek Pass that traverses it. This land unit features landscape units. Plantation remnants are found on the upper slopes of the mountain a large area of critical biodiversity in a natural state with areas of ecological support as and two large areas of early freehold grants are seen closer to the town of Franschhoek. one moves down the slope. The unit features generally unsuitable soils for agriculture. Numerous significant sites have been recorded in the urban areas of this landscape unit. This unit is a good example of where development has changed the land character. The dominant components are houses, equally distributed over the land area and placed Although development has degraded this landscape, it still has scenic and ecological within vineyards and natural vegetation. In contrast to the neighbouring land units, significance. windbreaks and plantation remnants are not among the elements that make up the pattern. New developments, such as the Fransche Hoek Estate, have not yet settled into the landscape and therefore have a degrading effect on the inherent character of the landscape. On a larger scale, this development is an intrusion into the cultural landscape of Franschhoek. Expansive views are found from the Olifantshoek Pass over the historic town of Franschhoek. The landscape unit extends as a toe (with tennis courts) into the

View over Franschhoek towards Middelberg H02 OLIFANTSHOEK PASS A ECOLOGICAL In contrast to the neighbouring land units, Although development has degraded this landscape, it still has scenic and ecological Significance: windbreaks and plantation remnants are significance. This land unit features a large area of not among the elements that make up critical biodiversity in a natural state with the pattern. MAIN AIM: INTERVENE (CHANGE) in a deliberate, planned way to improve a land areas of ecological support as one moves parcel. This approach may be appropriate where the landscape or townscape has down the slope. New developments, such as the Fransche declined beyond the point where enhancement is possible. Actions include: (a) To Hoek Estate, have not yet settled into rehabilitate the site to its previous, or natural character, or (b) to accelerate change Development Criteria: the landscape and therefore have towards a new or strengthened character and resilient landscape. The resilient ● Support protected areas and existing a degrading effect on the inherent heritage landscapes in Stellenbosch, in which development and intervention are most nature reserves, with their landforms character of the landscape. On a larger desirable, are those landscapes or units that historically (and almost sporadically) and areas of critical biodiversity, which scale, this development is an intrusion into underwent change, but continued to form a new typology of equal aesthetic within strongly contribute to the “wilderness the cultural landscape of Franschhoek. the landscape, strengthening existing spatial patterns. domain” of the winelands cultural landscape. Expansive views are found from the MAIN VALUE: ECOLOGIC - This landscape unit has been damaged due to insensitive ● Maintain ecological support areas Olifantshoek Pass over the historic town of development that neglected the landscape to a point where rehabilitation is needed to sites of heritage significance Franschhoek. to improve the current character, and act as mitigation measure. Rehabilitation (particularly river corridors). Only is needed to re-establish the previous lush vegetated edges, and other areas to its permit development that responds to Development Criteria: original fynbos vegetation. the heritage sensitivity of the site, and TREES that will not dominate, or irreparably ● Fruit orchards are associated with CONSERVATION SYSTEM: This Landscape unit is an enclosed land parcel within the damage the environments adjacent windbreak trees (see T10.3 in the winelands at the end of a Grade II scenic route. A large piece of this landscape unit to these heritage sites. Optimize the CMP for windbreak species) which is a protected area already, the urban edge should not be allowed to erode into this scenic and recreational opportunities form distinctive strong lines on the boundary. Foreground criteria applies to the 0-500m buffer around the grade II scenic provided by water courses and larger landscape. In cases where the route. This covers more than half of the landscape unit. It also has a coverage of more water bodies, especially where they orchard has lost its function, to retain than 70%, and medium visibility in view of 4 other grade II scenic routes. The green were enjoyed through historic right of its heritage values the windbreak trees transition conservation system is triggered that advocates for new development to way. should be kept and new development allow for links to the mountains and the larger natural landscape. ● Promote transitions or buffers, and could be included within existing larger connected systems, to nature blocks. This has been neglected, DEVIATED LAND USE/USES THAT WILL LIKELY ERODE LANDSCAPE CHARACTER: Large reserves (see Green Transition and therefore new planting patterns scale industrial structures, mining, substation, landfill, parking lot (without mitigation), conservation system). To protect should be established as mitigation business park, isolated shopping centres. Gated community, suburban sprawl, nursery important habitats, provide increased measures to hide the development. mixed use garden centre. opportunities for recreation and the ● In some cases, remnant planting traditional use of the landscape. patterns (even single trees) uphold DEVELOPMENT CRITERIA ● Respect development setbacks from the historic character of an area. Grade IIIb Please refer to the Conservation Management water resources to provide protection Interpretation of these landscape section of the CMP for general guidelines, from flooding as well as creating features as historic remnants should Foothill CS explanatory text/terms, and the process scenic and ecological corridors (see occur. behind developing the Development Criteria. legislation in place for river corridors). ● Many of the strongest planting patterns Green Transition CS The Development Criteria sheets are based that contribute to the historic character on Landscape and Townscape typologies of landscape and townscape units, Scenic Route CS found within the Stellenbosch Municipality. B AESTHETIC are within road reserves and on public The focus is on the current heritage elements Significance: land. A maintenance and re-planting and character of the landscapes, and the This unit is a good example of where plan should be developed. criteria are discussed under the five value development has changed the land ● Traditional planting patterns should lines (ecologic, aesthetic, historic, social character. The dominant components be protected by ensuring that existing and economic). They should also be read are houses, equally distributed over the tree alignments and copses are not in conjunction with the Heritage Inventory land area and placed within vineyards needlessly destroyed, but reinforced (individual sites) and the Conservation Systems and natural vegetation. or replaced, thereby enhancing (Appendix 3 of the CMP). traditional patterns with appropriate ● The construction of over-scaled species. private dwellings and other structures ● The felling of mature exotic or in locations of high visual significance, indigenous trees within residential and on visually-exposed promontories, areas should be avoided. Instead ridges and ridgelines, should be continuous tree canopies should be discouraged. Preferred locations are encouraged, especially within urban sites that have already been settled environments. (for instance consolidated around ● Significant avenues should be farmyards, or near villages and protected as a heritage component. hamlets), or sites ‘tucked into’ the landscape, using the same criteria for LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT site-location as the adjacent, older ● The high mountains in the study farmsteads. Mitigation measures area are landforms vital to its overall should follow rehabilitation strategies landscape character. They enclose as incorporated at Haute Cabriere the valleys and settlements of heritage within this landscape unit. significance. Prevent development ● Land use related to agricultural use on visually sensitive mountain slopes but with large visual intrusions / clutter and ridgelines in order to preserve (such as timber yards and nurseries) the continuity of the mountains as a should be carefully assessed. backdrop. Mitigation measures should be put ● Limit cultivation and development on in place before any development or upper mountain slopes greater than rezoning is permitted to allow such 1:4 to protect scenic resources and uses. water catchments, and to minimise ● Encourage mitigation measures C HISTORIC visual scarring and erosion. Propose (for instance use of vegetation) to Significance: ‘no-go’ development areas above “embed” existing over-scaled private There are remains of the sequence of passes, ruins associated with the construction the 380m contour line. dwellings within the surrounding period c.1824, a toll house, and an intact stone bridge (Jan Joubertgat Bridge; Grade ● Retain view-lines and vistas focused agricultural landscape. II). on prominent natural features ● Maintain larger unified land areas to such as mountain peaks, as these protect larger landscape continuums The landscape unit extends as a toe (with tennis courts) into the town of Franschhoek, are important place-making and that display a unified scenic character. adding an interesting dynamic between two historically loaded landscape units. orientating elements for experiencing ● It is recommended that visual the cultural landscape. They are permeability should be maintained Plantation remnants are found on the upper slopes of the mountain and two large not only important for landscape towards mountains, valleys and areas of early freehold grants are seen closer to the town of Franschhoek. character, but also for water security, across open, and cultivated fields. and biodiversity. (a) Discourage the use of solid walls Development Criteria: ● Maintain the balance of Urban, Rural around vineyards and agricultural FREEHOLD and Wilderness areas. It is the interplay areas in public view and along scenic ● Evidence of the earliest occupation of the landscape is not always visible. Should and relationship between these routes. (b) Views should be framed any be uncovered, the provincial heritage authority (HWC) should be notified and that give the study area its unique and enhanced by development engaged with to determine appropriate action. character (refer to the Conservation wherever possible. ● The layout of the first freehold land grants often correlates with surviving features at Systems). ● D a landscape level. If such a structure is recognised, it should be maintained. ● Any remaining structures or fabric associated with the first freehold land grants should be protected, and included as part of the heritage inventory. ● Alterations and additions to conservation-worthy structures should be sympathetic to their architectural character and period detailing, but should also align with Burra Charter Article 22 (see introduction of this section). ROUTES ● The old road fabric, ruins and the bridge should be conserved (see development criteria under D Social).

PLANTATION ● Rehabilitation of forestry areas should be applied in the same way rehabilitation is conducted in mining operations- from the onset. This includes adaptive reuse strategies for the sawmill structure. ● Forestry service roads are difficult to rehabilitate. Instead these roads are part of the historic layering that tells the story of forestry and could be used for another purpose such as recreation. ● Another method of rehabilitation could entail the production of traditional plant resources, where indigenous knowledge of plants and foraging could be applied.

D SOCIAL Significance:

Situated between H01 and H04 (two similar units), the main structural element is the Franschhoek mountains with the Olifantshoek/Franschhoek Pass that traverses it.

Development Criteria: HUNTER GATHERERS/HERDERS E ECONOMIC ● Names of mountain passes (in this footpaths across the cultivated of Green Transitions and Foothills Significance: case Olifants pass) and water courses landscape. (b) Restore areas of Conservation). The unit features generally unsuitable soils that reference a traditional use during recreation, especially where the ● Always use existing roads and for agriculture (viticulture). the time of the hunter-gatherers public has traditionally enjoyed rights pathways, such as old forestry service and herders of the Cape should be of access. Action might include the roads, before any new routes are celebrated. Public access to these removal of fences and walls, where it established. As much wilderness area sites should be encouraged. is appropriate. (c)Prevent privatisation as possible must be left intact. ● Sensitive development that interprets of natural places that form part of the ● The principle of ‘tread lightly’ in any the narrative of historic movement historical public open space resource activity (and associated development routes. Drover routes, mountain network. (d) Allow for sustainable, requirements e.g. toilets for major passes, where they are still known and traditional use of natural places for events) in this domain should be used for a similar use or as public open recreational, spiritual and resource- emphasised. space, have value and should be collection purposes. ● Make sure the required provision for retained. ● Where practical, encourage the rehabilitation and maintenance ● All archaeological material is managed access to wilderness of the slopes used for traditional and protected in terms of the NHRA. areas on the higher slopes. This recreational purposes is in place. will allow residents and visitors to ● Mountain slopes have been used RECREATION the winelands opportunities to for traditional practices for many ● It is recommended that physical experience the wilderness domain, years, and care should be taken that permeability to communal resources which is a key component within any significant cultural sites, such as such as rivers and mountains is the cultural landscape as a whole, burials and veldkos/medicinal plant maintained and enhanced, for the and to experience the sense of resources, are not disturbed. enjoyment of all members of the interconnectedness of the wilderness, ● public. This is particularly true when agricultural and urban domains ● considering any new development through views from the upper slopes. ● proposals. (a) Promote public (See the conservation systems ● D H03 (8.05) Grade IIIa

HISTORIC FRANSCHHOEK

Waterwheel

H03 La Cotte The main structuring element is the dramatic Wemmershoek Mountain that frames the planes). Acorns from an ancient Oak tree on the werf were planted in France in 1920 in eastern edge of the town of Franschhoek. Large areas of critical biodiversity (still in natural honour of the Battle of Delville Wood. The distribution of water from springs and streams condition) are found on the upper reaches of the slopes. Ecological support areas are to supply the emerging town below, played an important cultural role in this landscape. found around the drainage lines that run from the mountain slopes to form part of the For fifty years, a volunteer opened and closed the pipes every morning and afternoon. Franschhoek River. The lower section of the unit displays highly suitable soils for agriculture. Two waterfalls are located on the farm of Chamonix. A large number of historic sites The main road through Franschhoek forms the western boundary of this landscape unit. have been recorded within this area of Franschhoek and social significance is high. The mountains act as backdrops to the historic buildings in this urban node, denoting a specific sense of place. Uitsig Road leads up onto the higher foothills, with beautiful This landscape has historic, associational and scientific significance for its innovative views over Franschhoek. This land unit is similar to H01 in the building blocks that make up water supply system and use of water power. It also has landscape and aesthetic its grain. The combination of vineyards, tree-lined land units, irrigation dams and evenly significance with a degree of rarity to it, forming part of a larger cultural landscape. A distributed farmsteads is characteristic of this landscape unit. Natural vegetation is found distinct pattern of dramatic peaks, plantations, vineyards and wilderness outlines the on the mountain slopes and follows the river edges to form organic fingers that keep the key features of the cultural landscape in the Cape winelands. landscape tightly knitted together. Plantation remnants are located on the higher slopes of the mountain. La Cotte is one of the oldest farms in the Franschhoek Valley and is currently being redeveloped. La Cotte evolved into a magnificent cultural landscape that comprises buildings and werf, sections of ringmuur (in places carrying water to work the watermill), vineyards, grazing lands and mature trees (Oaks, coral trees and London

View from La Cotte H03 LA COTTE A ECOLOGICAL B AESTHETIC This landscape has historic, associational and scientific significance for its early Significance: Significance: settlement pattern and changes over time, and innovative water supply system and Large areas of critical biodiversity (still in The main structuring element is the use of water power. It also has landscape and aesthetic significance with a degree natural condition) are found on the upper dramatic Wemmershoek Mountain that of rarity to it, forming part of a larger cultural landscape. This is under threat. A distinct reaches of the slopes. Ecological support frames the eastern edge of the town of pattern of dramatic peaks, plantations, vineyards and wilderness outlines the key areas are found around the drainage Franschhoek. features of the cultural landscape in the Cape winelands. lines that run from the mountain slopes to form part of the Franschhoek River. The main road through Franschhoek forms MAIN AIM: CONSERVE - The existing character is to be conserved (maintained). the western boundary of this landscape This may require both protection and maintenance of the significant elements and Development Criteria: unit. features as well as appropriate development thereof. It includes the promotion of ● Support protected areas and existing these landscapes and places for the appreciation and continuity of their cultural nature reserves, with their landforms The mountains act as backdrops to the significance. and areas of critical biodiversity, historic buildings in this urban node, which strongly contribute to the denoting a specific sense of place. MAIN VALUE: HISTORIC, AESTHETIC, ECOLOGIC, ECONOMIC - This landscape unit as “wilderness domain” of the winelands per its statement of significance enjoys a degree of rarity within the winelands. The cultural landscape (See the Foothills Uitsig Road leads up onto the higher aesthetic quality, in combination with its historic character, economic potential Conservation System). foothills, with outstanding views over centered around viticulture, and wilderness area reflect the cultural landscape of ● Maintain ecological support areas Franschhoek. the Stellenbosch winelands and should be preserved. It's transition into the town of to sites of heritage significance Franschhoek adds to the diversity of this landscape unit. (particularly river corridors). Only The grain of this land unit is similar to H01 permit development that responds to in the combination of cultivated land and CONSERVATION SYSTEM: This Landscape unit is an enclosed land parcel within the the heritage sensitivity of the site, and farm complexes with remnants of natural winelands at the end of a three Grade II scenic routes. The top of the mountains in that will not dominate, or irreparably fingers leading from mountain to town. this landscape unit is already a protected area, but the Foothills conservation system damage the environments adjacent is also triggered. It is classified as an exceptionally scenic landscape (a coverage of to these heritage sites. Optimize the Natural vegetation is found on the more than 70% in terms of grade II scenic routes), and has a high visibility (can be seen scenic and recreational opportunities mountain slopes and follows the river from 5 out of the 6 Grade II scenic route viewsheds in the Franschhoek valley. provided by water courses and larger edges to form organic fingers that keep water bodies, especially where they the landscape tightly knitted together. DEVIATED LAND USE/USES THAT WILL LIKELY ERODE LANDSCAPE CHARACTER: Over- were enjoyed through historic right of Plantation remnants are located on the scaled private dwellings, cluttered properties, agricultural related practices (other than way. higher slopes of the mountain. viticulture and orchards), gated residential estates, large scale industrial structures, ● Promote transitions or buffers, and suburban development, nursery/mixed use/garden centre, restaurant/farmstall, larger connected systems, to nature Development Criteria: recreation related trails and structures, mining, school complex, substation, landfill or reserves (see Foothill conservation LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT sewage plant, parking lot, market, business park, isolated shopping centre. system). To protect important habitats, ● The high mountains in the study provide increased opportunities for area are landforms vital to its overall DEVELOPMENT CRITERIA Grade IIIa recreation and the traditional use of landscape character. They enclose Please refer to the Conservation Management the landscape. the valleys and settlements of heritage section of the CMP for general guidelines, Foothill CS ● Respect development setbacks from significance. Prevent development explanatory text/terms, and the process water resources to provide protection on visually sensitive mountain slopes behind developing the Development Criteria. from flooding as well as creating and ridgelines in order to preserve Green Transition CS The Development Criteria sheets are based scenic and ecological corridors (see the continuity of the mountains as a on Landscape and Townscape typologies legislation in place for river corridors). backdrop. Scenic Route CS found within the Stellenbosch Municipality. The focus is on the current heritage elements and character of the landscapes, and the criteria are discussed under the five value lines (ecologic, aesthetic, historic, social and economic). They should also be read in conjunction with the Heritage Inventory (individual sites) and the Conservation Systems (Appendix 3 of the CMP). C HISTORIC Significance: La Cotte is one of the oldest farms in the Franschhoek Valley and is currently being ● Limit cultivation and development on Mitigation measures should be put redeveloped. La Cotte evolved into a magnificent cultural landscape that comprises upper mountain slopes greater than in place before any development or buildings and werf, sections of ringmuur (in places carrying water to work the watermill), 1:4 to protect scenic resources and rezoning is permitted to allow such vineyards, grazing lands and mature trees (Oaks, coral trees and London planes). water catchments, and to minimise uses. visual scarring and erosion. Propose ● Encourage mitigation measures Acorns from an ancient Oak tree on the werf were planted in France in 1920 in honour ‘no-go’ development areas above (for instance use of vegetation) to of the Battle of Delville Wood. the 500m contour line for cultivated “embed” existing over-scaled private fields as well as built structures. dwellings within the surrounding A large number of historic sites have been recorded within this area of Franschhoek ● Retain view-lines and vistas focused agricultural landscape. and social significance is high. on prominent natural features ● Maintain larger unified land areas to such as mountain peaks, as these protect larger landscape continuums Development Criteria: are important place-making and that display a unified scenic character. 18TH CENTURY WERF orientating elements for experiencing ● It is recommended that visual ● Respect traditional werf settlement patterns by considering the entire werf as the the cultural landscape. They are permeability should be maintained component of significance. This includes the backdrop of the natural landscape not only important for landscape towards mountains, valleys and against which it is sited, as well as its spatial structure. Any development that character, but also for water security, across open, and cultivated fields. impacts the inherent character of the werf component should be discouraged. and biodiversity. (a) Discourage the use of solid walls ● Interventions on the werf must respect the layout, scale, massing, hierarchy, ● Maintain the balance of Urban, Rural around vineyards and agricultural alignments, access, landscaping and setting. and Wilderness areas. It is the interplay areas in public view and along scenic ● Historical layering must be respected and protected. Alterations and additions and relationship between these routes. (b) Views should be framed to conservation-worthy structures should be sympathetic to their architectural that give the study area its unique and enhanced by development character and period detailing. Inappropriate ‘modernisation’ of conservation- character (refer to the Conservation wherever possible. worthy structures and traditional werfs should be prevented. Inappropriate Systems). maintenance can compromise historic structures. Heritage expertise is required ● The construction of over-scaled PLANTATION where appropriate. private dwellings and other structures ● Forestry service roads are difficult to ● Distinguish old from new but ensure visual harmony between historical fabric and in locations of high visual significance, rehabilitate. Instead these roads are new interventions in terms of appropriate scale, massing, form and architectural and on visually-exposed promontories, part of the historic layering that tells the treatment, without directly copying these details. ridges and ridgelines, should be story of forestry and could be used for ● Encourage development that prolongs the longevity of historic family farms as an discouraged. Preferred locations are another purpose such as recreation. increasingly rare typology. sites that have already been settled ● The remnant plantation adds to ● Any development that threatens the inherent character of family burial grounds (for instance consolidated around the character and layering of this should be discouraged. farmyards, or near villages and landscape unit. Unless environmental ● Encourage the multifunctional use of existing heritage sites and resources with hamlets), or sites ‘tucked into’ the concerns are overriding, it could be different but sensitive new uses. Development and adaptive re-use that caters for landscape, using the same criteria for kept as is. the integration of different modes of access and a greater diversity of users should site-location as the adjacent, older ● Another method of rehabilitation be encouraged. farmsteads. could entail the production of ● Encourage intervention to revive heritage features in decline, by engaging with ● Land use related to agricultural use traditional plant resources, where innovative development proposals where appropriate, and considering sensitive but with large visual intrusions / clutter indigenous knowledge of plants and adaptive reuse strategies for each, specific heritage resource. (such as timber yards and nurseries) foraging could be applied. ● Adaptive strategies need to take the surroundings as well as the structures into should be carefully assessed. ● D account. ● Where the historic function of a building is still intact, the function has heritage value and should be protected.

PLANTING PATTERN ● Traditional planting patterns should be protected by ensuring that existing tree alignments and copses are not needlessly destroyed, but reinforced or replaced, thereby enhancing traditional patterns with appropriate species. ● The felling of mature exotic or indigenous trees within residential areas should be responsive to the historical rural avoided. Instead continuous tree canopies should be encouraged, especially context, and avoid suburban type within urban environments. layouts, particularly gated estates, in ● Significant avenues should be protected as a heritage component. rural areas. ● In some cases, remnant planting patterns (even single trees) uphold the historic ● Ensure that new developments within character of an area. Interpretation of these landscape features as historic rural contexts are in sympathy with the remnants should occur. topography and unique genus loci of ● Many of the strongest planting patterns that contribute to the historic character of the place/landscape unit. landscape and townscape units, are within road reserves and on public land. A ● Ensure that new buildings within maintenance and re-planting plan should be developed. historical precincts or werf contexts are in sympathy with the scale, massing, layout and idiom of surrounding D SOCIAL buildings. Significance: La Cotte represents the regional pattern where possible. E ECONOMIC of property ownership, family dynasties, ● A leivoor often includes large trees Significance: farming practices, labour relations (such as oaks) aligned next to a street. The lower section of the unit displays and architectural changes over three Any development that threatens this highly suitable soils for agriculture. centuries. The distribution of water character should be discouraged. from springs and streams to supply ● Sensitive development that interprets The combination of vineyards, tree-lined the emerging town below, played an the narrative of historic use of water land units, irrigation dams and evenly important cultural role in this landscape. in this way, where they are still known distributed farmsteads is characteristic of and used for a similar use or as public this landscape unit. Development Criteria: open space, have value and should LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT be retained. Development Criteria: ● Names of mountain passes and water ● Care should be taken that vineyards courses that reference a traditional PATTERN OF SETTLEMENT are not needlessly destroyed, use during the time of the hunter- ● Gentrification of rural settlements and replaced by non-agricultural gatherers and herders of the Cape through lifestyle ‘rural’ estates should development. The potential should be celebrated. Public access be discouraged. Here the edge of agricultural use of the land should be to these sites should be encouraged. town has suffered under this form of retained for the future. ● Sensitive development that interprets insensitive development. ● Fruit orchards are associated with the narrative of historic movement ● Prevent gentrification from threatening windbreak trees (see T10.3 in the routes. Drover routes, where they are the distinctiveness of the unique CMP for windbreak species) which still known and used for a similar use settlements within the Stellenbosch form distinctive strong lines on the or as public open space, have value winelands. landscape. In cases where the and should be retained. ● Respect existing patterns, typologies orchard has lost its function, to retain and traditions of settlement-making its heritage values the windbreak trees WATER SYSTEM by promoting the continuity of should be kept and new development ● The role of water as a structuring heritage features. These include: could be included within existing system within settlements must be (a) indigenous; (b) colonial; and (c) blocks. respected, particularly in terms of current living heritage in the form of ● Developments that promote the improving the functioning of leiwater tangible and intangible associations continuity of the core function of systems. These are significant elements to place. agriculture within the Stellenbosch in historic agricultural and gardening ● The strong character and patterns of winelands should be promoted. activities, and in this landscape, unit the village precinct (established by fulfills a special social reference with street and building-patterns, including association to place. building setback, scale and form, and ● Water often serves as a place- dwellings on thin agricultural strips, making and social element within the must be respected. Over-scaled new settlement fabric, and this role should development should not be allowed. be preserved and strengthened ● Ensure that new development is H05 (6.2) Grade IIIb

HISTORIC FRANSCHHOEK

Groendal

H05 Groendal The Wemmershoek Mountains, with Suikerboskop, form the backdrop to this land unit that in visual disturbance. In old Groendal, numerous late-Victorian cottages, many of them mainly consists of greater Groendal and the informal settlement of Langrug. The open altered, are located along Keerom and Stibuel Streets, and carry a high level of social land on the upper reaches has a layer of critical biodiversity still in a natural state, while significance. They also add to the value of the streetscapes. Langrug is developed on a former ecological support area. The critical biodiversity area is defined by large dirt roads and an irrigation dam. Furthermore, the soils on the upper The significance of this landscape unit has been greatly compromised by the parts of Groendal and Langrug are some of the most suitable for agriculture in the area. unprecedented density of the Langrug settlement that has crept into the plantation The pattern of this land unit is mostly associated with urban development of different buffer zone between wilderness and peri-urban plots. Groendal has a high level of densities. On the higher slopes, expansive views are found towards Dassenberg. The social and representative significance, reflecting segregation as implemented under visually intrusive settlements of upper Groendal and Langrug can be seen from a distance the apartheid system and subsequent problems in planning for remedial spatial, social on the road from Stellenbosch to Franschhoek (R45). Here, development was allowed and economic integration in the Cape winelands. without any consideration of its wider context within the Franschhoek Valley. Houses are built on the highest foothills and there is no spatial reference to the agricultural practices characteristic of the area. The reflection of light from corrugated-iron structures results

View towards the Wemmershoek Mountains, note Groendal creeping up on the footslopes H05 GROENDAL A ECOLOGICAL different densities. On the higher slopes, The significance of this landscape unit has been greatly compromised bythe Significance: expansive views are found towards unprecedented density of the Langrug settlement that intrudes into the plantation The open land on the upper reaches Dassenberg. buffer zone between wilderness and peri-urban plots. Groendal has a high level of has a layer of critical biodiversity still in a social and representative significance, reflecting segregation as implemented under natural state, while Langrug is developed The visually intrusive settlements of upper the apartheid system and subsequent problems in planning for remedial spatial, social on a former ecological support area. The Groendal and Langrug can be seen from and economic integration in the Cape winelands. critical biodiversity area is defined by a distance on the road from Stellenbosch large dirt roads and an irrigation dam. to Franschhoek (R45). Here, development MAIN AIM: INTERVENE (CHANGE) in a deliberate, planned way to improve a land was allowed with little consideration of parcel. This approach may be appropriate where the landscape or townscape has Development Criteria: its wider context within the Franschhoek declined beyond the point where enhancement is possible. Actions include: (a) To ● Support protected areas and existing Valley. rehabilitate the site to its previous, or natural character, or (b) to accelerate change nature reserves, with their landforms towards a new or strengthened character and resilient landscape. The resilient and areas of critical biodiversity, Houses are built on the highest foothills heritage landscapes in Stellenbosch, in which development and intervention are most which strongly contribute to the and there is no spatial reference to the desirable, are those landscapes or units that historically (and almost sporadically) “wilderness domain” of the winelands agricultural practices characteristic of underwent change, but continued to form a new typology of equal aesthetic within cultural landscape (See the Foothills the area. The reflection of light from the landscape, strengthening existing spatial patterns. Conservation System). corrugated-iron structures results in visual ● Promote transitions or buffers, and disturbance. MAIN VALUE: ECOLOGIC - This landscape unit has been damaged due to insensitive larger connected systems, to nature development that neglected the landscape to a point where mitigation is needed to reserves (see Foothill conservation Development Criteria: improve the current character. Change need to be accelerated towards a new and system). To protect important habitats, LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT strengthened character, including a form of rehabilitation. provide increased opportunities for ● Names of mountain passes and water recreation and the traditional use of courses that reference a traditional CONSERVATION SYSTEM: A large piece of this landscape unit is a protected area, the the landscape. use during the time of the hunter- urban edge should not be able to erode into this boundary. Foreground criteria applies ● Respect development setbacks from gatherers and herders of the Cape to the 0-500m buffer around the grade II scenic route. This landscape unit is one of the water resources to provide protection should be celebrated. Public access exceptional land parcels in terms of visibility from grade II scenic routes (see Appendix from flooding as well as creating to these sites should be encouraged. 3). This highlights the visual impact that the degraded state of this landscape unit has scenic and ecological corridors (see ● The high mountains in the study on the overall character. The green transition conservation system is triggered that legislation in place for river corridors). area are landforms vital to its overall advocates for new development to allow for links to the mountains and the larger ● No development should be allowed landscape character. They enclose natural landscape. to erode this pocket of natural the valleys and settlements of heritage vegetation that is still in a natural state. significance. Prevent development DEVIATED LAND USE/USES THAT WILL LIKELY ERODE LANDSCAPE CHARACTER: Gated ● Special incentives should be given on visually sensitive mountain slopes residential estates, large scale industrial structures, mining, substation, landfill or sewage for the planting of trees or vegetation and ridgelines in order to preserve plant, business park, isolated shopping centres especially above the 320m contour the continuity of the mountains as a line. This will mitigate the visual effect backdrop. of sprawl, and add a layer of ecology ● Limit cultivation and development on DEVELOPMENT CRITERIA back to the site. upper mountain slopes greater than Grade IIIb Please refer to the Conservation Management 1:4 to protect scenic resources and section of the CMP for general guidelines, water catchments, and to minimise Foothill CS explanatory text/terms, and the process B AESTHETIC visual scarring and erosion. Propose behind developing the Development Criteria. Significance: ‘no-go’ development areas above Green Transition CS The Development Criteria sheets are based The Wemmershoek Mountains, with the (ideally above the 300 - 320m on Landscape and Townscape typologies Suikerboskop, form the backdrop to this contour line). Special measures could Scenic Route CS found within the Stellenbosch Municipality. land unit that mainly consists of greater be taken to mitigate the visual effect The focus is on the current heritage elements Groendal and the informal settlement of of existing developments through and character of the landscapes, and the Langrug. planting strategies in these areas. criteria are discussed under the five value lines (ecologic, aesthetic, historic, social The pattern of this land unit is mostly PLANTATION and economic). They should also be read ● Forestry service roads are difficult to in conjunction with the Heritage Inventory associated with urban development of (individual sites) and the Conservation Systems (Appendix 3 of the CMP). rehabilitate. Instead these roads are part of the historic layering that tells the story of forestry and could be used for another purpose such as recreation. ● Another method of rehabilitation could entail the production of traditional plant resources, where indigenous knowledge of plants and foraging could be applied.

C HISTORIC Significance: In old Groendal, numerous late-Victorian cottages, many of them altered, are located along Keerom and Stibuel Streets, and carry a high level of social significance. They also add to the significance of the streetscapes.

Development Criteria: ● Avoid visual clutter that erodes the settlement pattern. ● Promote urban densification to protect the rural landscape as the main communal asset. Urban and rural regeneration should include former industrial sites. ● Give preference to the reinforcement of existing settlements and settlement patterns rather than extending development outside the urban edge ● The strong character and patterns of the village precinct (established by street and building-patterns, including building setback, scale and form, and dwellings, must be respected. Over-scaled new development should not be allowed. ● Alterations and additions to conservation-worthy structures should be sympathetic to their architectural character and period detailing. Inappropriate maintenance can compromise historic fabric.

D SOCIAL E ECONOMIC Significance: Significance: High level of associative value to place, that often comprises the oldest fabric The soils on the upper parts of Groendal especially places of worship and school as well as the buildings that perform and Langrug are some of the most structures. social and spiritual functions within suitable for agriculture in the area. the community. These should be Development Criteria: protected as Special Areas within the Development Criteria: ● Proposed development should neighbourhoods. ● The proliferation of non-agricultural recognise the relationship of ● Facilitate access to opportunities (a) uses, particularly in visually prominent communities to their land and Improve quality of life by encouraging locations, should be avoided. This is communal facilities. Any development access to nature, health and in order to protect the predominantly proposal should show a clear recreation routes, and the traditional agricultural character of the understanding of the ‘intangible’ use of the landscape (refer to the landscape. features and values of these sites. Conservation Systems). (b) Reconsider ● ● New development that reinforces areas such as the Jim Fouche picnic ● segregated planning principles should site in Franschhoek, that offer social ● be discouraged. and recreational opportunities for ● ● Settlements often have a historic core intensive use by large groups. ● f H06 (8.05) Grade IIIa Remnant plantation

HISTORIC FRANSCHHOEK Mountains

Floodplain

R45 into Franschhoek

H06 Dassenberg Remnant This is an important land unit that stretches along both sides of the road (R45) as it enters Provence main house, Klein La Provence, a villa at the plantation Franschhoek from Stellenbosch. The flat floodplain and its associated ecological support entrance to Grande Provence, Ricketty Bridge and a area places emphasis on the Wemmershoek Mountains and Dassenberg, where few workers’ cottages. remnant plantations on the hilltop are currently undergoing rehabilitation. The land unit features a variety of medium to highly suitable soils for agriculture. A combination of The significance of this landscape is in the linear Diagrammatic illustration of important vineyards, open veld and espaliered fruit trees are located in agricultural blocks on the pattern of settlement special to the Cape Winelands. views and position of homesteads flat terrain on each side of the road. A few edges are lined with smaller trees, in contrast Any large-scale development developed against the to land unit H01 and H03 where large trees are used as windbreaks. Homesteads are grain and size of this pattern will have a degrading generally found at a distance from the road and hidden in clusters of trees. The river plain effect on the larger cultural landscape. It is important with its tree belt forms a distinct edge between Dassenberg and the vineyards below. that view lines are left undisturbed across the This belt of trees is a continuous line that flows from the ‘natural fingers’ on the mountain floodplain area towards the mountains. slopes in unit H01. A strong pattern of settlement is seen along the Franschhoek River with numerous heritage-worthy structures as part of this pattern. These include Grande

Dassenberg H06 DASSENBERG A ECOLOGICAL rehabilitate. Instead these roads are The significance of this landscape is in the linear pattern of settlement special to the Significance: part of the historic layering that tells the Cape Winelands. Any large-scale development developed against the grain and The flat floodplain and its associated story of forestry and could be used for size of this pattern will have a degrading effect on the larger cultural landscape. It is ecological support area places emphasis another purpose such as recreation. important that view lines are left undisturbed across the floodplain area towards the on the Wemmershoek Mountains and ● another method of rehabilitation mountains. Dassenberg, where remnant plantations could entail the production of on the hilltop are currently undergoing traditional plant resources, where MAIN AIM: CONSERVE - The existing character is to be conserved (maintained). rehabilitation. indigenous knowledge of plants and This may require both protection and maintenance of the significant elements and foraging could be applied. features as well as appropriate development thereof. It includes the promotion of Development Criteria: these landscapes and places for the appreciation and continuity of their cultural ● Support protected areas and existing B AESTHETIC significance. nature reserves, with their landforms Significance: and areas of critical biodiversity, which This is an important land unit that stretches MAIN VALUE: HISTORIC, AESTHETIC, ECOLOGIC, ECONOMIC - The aesthetic quality, in strongly contribute to the “wilderness along both sides of the road (R45) as it combination with its historic character, economic potential centred around viticulture, domain” of the winelands cultural enters Franschhoek from Stellenbosch / and wilderness area reflect the cultural landscape of the Stellenbosch winelands and landscape. Paarl. should be preserved. View lines, and linear pattern of settlement as per the statement ● Maintain ecological support areas of significance above should at all times be a priority to protect. to sites of heritage significance A few edges are lined with smaller trees, (particularly river corridors). Only in contrast to land unit H01 and H03 CONSERVATION SYSTEM: This Landscape unit stretches across a grade II scenic route, permit development that responds to where large trees are used as windbreaks. where foreground development criteria apply (listed in Appendix 3). It is classified as the heritage sensitivity of the site, and Homesteads are generally found at a an exceptional scenic landscape (a coverage of more than 70% in terms of grade II that will not dominate, or irreparably distance from the road and hidden in scenic routes), and has a high visibility (can be seen from 5 out of the 6 Grade II scenic damage the environments adjacent clusters of trees. The river plain with its route viewsheds in the Franschhoek valley. The top of the mountains in this landscape to these heritage sites. Optimize the tree belt forms a distinct edge between unit is already a protected area. The Foothills conservation system is also triggered. The scenic and recreational opportunities Dassenberg and the vineyards below. This Green Transitions conservation system should also be a consideration to uphold the provided by water courses and larger belt of trees is a continuous line that flows rural character of this landscape unit, while advocating public appreciation through water bodies, especially where they from the ‘natural fingers’ on the mountain the cultivated fields. The old train line (where it is not in use anymore) could be utilised were enjoyed through historic right of slopes in unit H01. as such by considering it as green infrastructure with walking and cycling routes, and way. facilitating access to nature. ● Promote transitions or buffers, and Development Criteria: larger connected systems, to nature PLANTING PATTERN DEVIATED LAND USE/USES THAT WILL LIKELY ERODE LANDSCAPE CHARACTER: Over- reserves (see Green Transition ● Traditional planting patterns should scaled private dwellings, cluttered properties, agricultural related practices without conservation system). To protect be protected by ensuring that existing mitigation (other than viticulture and orchards), gated residential estates, large scale important habitats, provide increased tree alignments and copses are not industrial structures, suburban development, mining, substation, landfill or sewage opportunities for recreation and the needlessly destroyed, but reinforced plant, parking lot (without mitigation), business park, isolated shopping centres. traditional use of the landscape. or replaced, thereby enhancing ● Respect development setbacks from traditional patterns with appropriate DEVELOPMENT CRITERIA Grade IIIa water resources to provide protection species. Please refer to the Conservation Management from flooding as well as creating ● The felling of mature exotic or section of the CMP for general guidelines, Foothill CS scenic and ecological corridors (see indigenous trees within residential explanatory text/terms, and the process legislation in place for river corridors). areas should be avoided. Instead behind developing the Development Criteria. continuous tree canopies should be Green Transition CS The Development Criteria sheets are based PLANTATION encouraged, especially within urban on Landscape and Townscape typologies ● Rehabilitation of forestry areas environments. Scenic Route CS found within the Stellenbosch Municipality. The focus is on the current heritage elements should be applied in the same way ● Significant avenues should be and character of the landscapes, and the rehabilitation is conducted in mining protected as a heritage component. criteria are discussed under the five value operations- from the onset. This ● In some cases, remnant planting lines (ecologic, aesthetic, historic, social includes adaptive reuse strategies for patterns (even single trees) uphold and economic). They should also be read the sawmill structure. the historic character of an area. in conjunction with the Heritage Inventory ● Forestry service roads are difficult to Interpretation of these landscape (individual sites) and the Conservation Systems (Appendix 3 of the CMP). features as historic remnants should (for instance consolidated around occur. farmyards, or near villages and ● Many of the strongest planting patterns hamlets), or sites ‘tucked into’ the that contribute to the historic character landscape, using the same criteria for of landscape and townscape units, site-location as the adjacent, older are within road reserves and on public farmsteads. land. A maintenance and re-planting ● Land use related to agricultural use plan should be developed. but with large visual intrusions / clutter (such as timber yards and nurseries) LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT should be carefully assessed. ● The high mountains in the study Mitigation measures should be put area are landforms vital to its overall in place before any development or landscape character. They enclose rezoning is permitted to allow such the valleys and settlements of heritage uses. significance. Prevent development ● Encourage mitigation measures on visually sensitive mountain slopes (for instance use of vegetation) to and ridgelines in order to preserve “embed” existing over-scaled private the continuity of the mountains as a dwellings within the surrounding backdrop. agricultural landscape. ● Limit cultivation and development on ● Maintain larger unified land areas to upper mountain slopes greater than protect larger landscape continuums 1:4 to protect scenic resources and that display a unified scenic character. C HISTORIC water catchments, and to minimise ● It is recommended that visual Significance: visual scarring and erosion. Propose permeability should be maintained A strong pattern of settlement is seen along the Franschhoek River with numerous ‘no-go’ development areas above towards mountains, valleys and heritage-worthy structures as part of this pattern. These include Grande Provence the 300m contour line for both the across open, and cultivated fields. main house, Klein La Provence, a villa at the entrance to Grande Provence, Rickety area of cultivation and built structure (a) Discourage the use of solid walls Bridge and a few workers’ cottages. north of the R45, and 200m contour around vineyards and agricultural line to the south against the foot of areas in public view and along scenic Development Criteria: Dassenberg. routes. (b) Views should be framed PATTERN OF SETTLEMENT ● Retain view-lines and vistas focused and enhanced by development ● Respect existing patterns, typologies and traditions of settlement-making by on prominent natural features wherever possible. promoting the continuity of these heritage features. These include; (a) indigenous; such as mountain peaks, as these (b) colonial; and (c) current living heritage in the form of tangible and intangible are important place-making and associations to place. orientating elements for experiencing ● The relocation of farm labour to housing settlements should be discouraged. Where the cultural landscape. They are structures are still used for workers housing, the historic use thereof has value, and not only important for landscape should be protected as far as possible. character, but also for water security, ● Avoid visual clutter that erodes the settlement pattern. and biodiversity. ● Promote urban densification to protect the rural landscape as the main communal ● Maintain the balance of Urban, Rural asset. Urban and rural regeneration should include former industrial sites. and Wilderness areas. It is the interplay ● Give preference to the reinforcement of existing settlements and settlement and relationship between these patterns rather than extending development outside the urban edge that give the study area its unique ● The proliferation of non-agricultural uses, particularly in visually prominent locations, character (refer to the Conservation should be avoided. This is in order to protect the predominantly agricultural Systems). character of the landscape. ● The construction of over-scaled ● The subdivision of farms into smaller uneconomic ‘lifestyle’ plots of less than 3 private dwellings and other structures hectares fundamentally erodes the agricultural character of the landscape. in locations of high visual significance, ● Prevent fragmentation and rezoning of wilderness or ‘natural’ areas within the and on visually-exposed promontories, municipality, to ensure that the important contribution of wilderness areas to the ridges and ridgelines, should be character of a variety of heritage sites is maintained. discouraged. Preferred locations are ● Maintain larger unified land areas to protect larger landscape continuums that sites that have already been settled display a unified scenic character. D SOCIAL E ECONOMIC Significance: Significance: Traditional use, and association to place, The land unit features a variety of medium was revealed in the public participation to highly suitable soils for agriculture. process. Opportunity for recreation to appreciate the open character of this A combination of vineyards, open veld landscape unit is possible with the old and espaliered fruit trees are located in plantation roads and old railway line. agricultural blocks on the flat terrain on each side of the road. Development Criteria: ● Facilitate access to opportunities (a) Development Criteria: Improve quality of life by encouraging ● Care should be taken that vineyards access to nature, health and are not needlessly destroyed, recreation routes, and the traditional and replaced by non-agricultural use of the landscape. (b) Reconsider development. The potential areas such as the Jim Fouche picnic agricultural use of the land should be site in Franschhoek. that offers social retained for the future. and recreational opportunities for ● Fruit orchards are associated with intensive use by large groups. In windbreak trees (see T10.3 in the this case, the old railway line is an CMP for windbreak species) which opportunity to incorporate some of form distinctive strong lines on the 18TH CENTURY WERF these ideas (please refer to the Green landscape. In cases where the ● Respect traditional werf settlement patterns by considering the entire werf as the Transitions conservation system). orchard has lost its function, to retain component of significance. This includes the backdrop of the natural landscape ● Maintain traditional movement its heritage values the windbreak trees against which it is sited, as well as its spatial structure. Any development that patterns across rural landscapes or should be kept and new development impacts the inherent character of the werf component should be discouraged. to places of socio-historical value. could be included within existing ● Interventions on the werf must respect the layout, scale, massing, hierarchy, (a) Avoid privatization or creation of blocks. alignments, access, landscaping and setting. barriers to traditional access routes. ● Developments that promote the ● Historical layering must be respected and protected. Alterations and additions (b) Retain old roadways, which have continuity of the core function of to conservation-worthy structures should be sympathetic to their architectural been replaced by newer roads, for agriculture within the Stellenbosch character and period detailing. Inappropriate ‘modernisation’ of conservation- use as recreation trails. Any new winelands should be promoted. worthy structures and traditional werfs should be prevented. Inappropriate development should facilitate and ● Cultural sites associated with 20th maintenance can compromise historic structures. Heritage expertise is required incorporate these links into their century settlement and farming where appropriate. proposals. practices should be protected, ● Distinguish old from new but ensure visual harmony between historical fabric and ● particularly church and farm school new interventions in terms of appropriate scale, massing, form and architectural ● sites that occur at the intersection of treatment, without directly copying these details. ● farm roads. The displacement of farm ● Encourage development that prolongs the longevity of historic family farms as an ● employees to nearby townships results increasingly rare typology. ● in the loss of integrity of their former ● Any development that threatens the inherent character of family burial grounds ● d dwellings. should be discouraged. ● Encourage the multifunctional use of existing heritage sites and resources with different but sensitive new uses. Development and adaptive re-use that caters for the integration of different modes of access and a greater diversity of users should be encouraged. ● Encourage intervention to revive heritage features in decline, by engaging with innovative development proposals where appropriate, and considering sensitive adaptive reuse strategies for each, specific heritage resource. ● Adaptive strategies need to take the surroundings as well as the structures into account. ● Where the historic function of a building is still intact, the function has heritage value and should be protected. H07 (5.35) Grade IIIb

HISTORIC FRANSCHHOEK

H07 Strip of open fallow land This land unit is a deviation from the rest of the landscape units in Franschhoek. It consists of a thin strip of open fallow land that stretches from the apex of the Wemmershoek Mountains, over the R45, to the floodplains of the Franschhoek River. The Robertsvlei Road joins the R45 in this location, with a small cluster of workers’ houses associated with the plantation industry. It is an interesting break from the rest of the agricultural typology of vineyards in the area. Furthermore, most of the soils south of the R45 and a large percentage of the soils to the north of it are highly suitable for agriculture. A degraded critical biodiversity area is found behind La Motte village, which coincides with a strip of early freehold land grants. One of the old plantation settlements is located adjacent to the R45. The landscape of Franschhoek was known for its plantations, that started as part of a job creation programme in the early 20th century. The land unit is criss-crossed by numerous footpaths leading from the settlement to the top of the mountain, and half- built structures add to the sense of neglect and disuse.

View over channel in land unit H07 H07 STRIP OF OPEN FALLOW LAND A ECOLOGICAL and included as part of the heritage MAIN AIM: INTERVENE (CHANGE) in a deliberate, planned way to improve a land Significance: inventory. parcel. This approach may be appropriate where the landscape or townscape has A degraded critical biodiversity area is ● Alterations and additions to declined beyond the point where enhancement is possible. Actions include: (a) To found behind La Motte village, which conservation-worthy structures should rehabilitate the site to its previous, or natural character, or (b) to accelerate change coincides with a strip of early freehold be sympathetic to their architectural towards a new or strengthened character and resilient landscape. The resilient land grants. character and period detailing, but heritage landscapes in Stellenbosch, in which development and intervention are most should also align with Burra Charter desirable, are those landscapes or units that historically (and almost sporadically) Development Criteria: Article 22 (see introduction of this underwent change, but continued to form a new typology of equal aesthetic within ● Support protected areas and existing section). the landscape, strengthening existing spatial patterns. nature reserves, with their landforms and areas of critical biodiversity, B AESTHETIC MAIN VALUE: ECONOMIC - This landscape unit is a neglected landscape, where which strongly contribute to the Significance: mitigation is needed to improve the current character. Change need to be “wilderness domain” of the winelands This land unit is a deviation from the rest accelerated towards a new and strengthened character, including innovative cultural landscape (See the Foothills of the landscape units in Franschhoek. development strategies. Conservation System). It consists of a thin strip of open fallow ● Promote transitions or buffers, and land that stretches from the apex of the CONSERVATION SYSTEM: A significant piece of this landscape unit is a protected area. larger connected systems, to nature Wemmershoek Mountains, over the R45, Foreground criteria applies to the 0-500m buffer around the grade II scenic route. This reserves (see Foothill conservation to the floodplains of the Franschhoek landscape unit is wedged between two exceptional land parcels in terms of visibility. system). To protect important habitats, River. The Robertsvlei Road joins the The nature of the thin strip, and the outcome of the visibility analysis excludes this land provide increased opportunities for R45 in this location, with a small cluster unit from the continuum. The Foothill conservation system is triggered. recreation and the traditional use of of workers’ houses associated with the the landscape. plantation industry. DEVIATED LAND USE/USES THAT WILL LIKELY ERODE LANDSCAPE CHARACTER: Gated ● Respect development setbacks from residential estates, large scale industrial structures, mining, substation, landfill or sewage water resources to provide protection Development Criteria: plant, business park, isolated shopping centres from flooding as well as creating ● The relocation of farm labour to scenic and ecological corridors (see housing settlements should be legislation in place for river corridors). discouraged. Where structures are still DEVELOPMENT CRITERIA ● Rehabilitation strategies, and used for workers housing, the historic Grade IIIb Please refer to the Conservation Management use thereof has value, and should be section of the CMP for general guidelines, development, could be applied to the protected as far as possible. Foothill CS explanatory text/terms, and the process piece of degraded critical biodiversity behind developing the Development Criteria. area that is in decline behind the Green Transition CS The Development Criteria sheets are based La Motte village. The village of La LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT on Landscape and Townscape typologies Motte is a good screen for possible ● The high mountains in the study area are landforms vital to its overall Scenic Route CS found within the Stellenbosch Municipality. development. The focus is on the current heritage elements landscape character. They enclose and character of the landscapes, and the FREEHOLD the valleys and settlements of heritage criteria are discussed under the five value ● Evidence of the earliest occupation significance. Prevent development lines (ecologic, aesthetic, historic, social of the landscape is not always visible. on visually sensitive mountain slopes and economic). They should also be read Should any be uncovered, the and ridgelines in order to preserve in conjunction with the Heritage Inventory provincial heritage authority (HWC) the continuity of the mountains as a (individual sites) and the Conservation Systems should be notified and engaged with backdrop. (Appendix 3 of the CMP). to determine appropriate action. ● Limit cultivation and development on ● The layout of the first freehold land upper mountain slopes greater than grants often correlates with surviving 1:4 to protect scenic resources and features at a landscape level. If such water catchments, and to minimise a structure is recognised, it should be visual scarring and erosion. Propose maintained. ‘no-go’ development areas above ● Any remaining structures or fabric the 300m contour line for both the associated with the first freehold cultivation and built structure north of land grants should be protected, the R45, and 220m contour line to the south against the foot of Dassenberg. C HISTORIC ● Retain view-lines and vistas focused Significance: on prominent natural features One of the old plantation settlements is located adjacent to the R45. The landscape such as mountain peaks, as these of Franschhoek was known for its plantations, which started as part of a job creation are important place-making and programme in the early 20th century. orientating elements for experiencing the cultural landscape. They are Development Criteria: not only important for landscape ● Respect existing patterns, typologies and traditions of settlement-making by character, but also for water security, promoting the continuity of these heritage features. These include; (a) indigenous; and biodiversity. (b) colonial; and (c) current living heritage in the form of tangible and intangible ● Land use related to agricultural use associations to place. but with large visual intrusions / clutter ● Village settlement associated with forestry is often made up of a grid patterned (such as timber yards and nurseries) street network, in close proximity to the sawmill. A key feature in these settlements should be carefully assessed. is the use of timber as a construction material. Where these settlements have Mitigation measures should be put heritage significance and historic character, new development that differs in mass in place before any development or and grain should be discouraged. rezoning is permitted to allow such uses.

PLANTING PATTERN D SOCIAL ● Traditional planting patterns should Significance: be protected by ensuring that existing The land unit is criss-crossed by numerous tree alignments and copses are not footpaths leading from the settlement to needlessly destroyed, but reinforced the top of the mountain, and half built or replaced, thereby enhancing structures add to the sense of neglect traditional patterns with appropriate and disuse. species. In this landscape unit it includes the avenue of trees lining the Development Criteria: will allow residents and visitors to recreational purposes is in place. streets of the La Motte Village. ● It is recommended that physical the winelands opportunities to ● Mountain slopes have been used ● The felling of mature exotic or permeability to communal resources experience the wilderness domain, for traditional practices for many indigenous trees within residential such as rivers and mountains is which is a key component within years, and care should be taken that areas should be avoided. Instead maintained and enhanced, for the the cultural landscape as a whole, any significant cultural sites, such as continuous tree canopies should be enjoyment of all members of the and to experience the sense of burials and veldkos/medicinal plant encouraged, especially within urban public. This is particularly true when interconnectedness of the wilderness, resources, are not disturbed. environments. considering any new development agricultural and urban domains ● Significant avenues should be proposals. (a) Promote public through views from the upper slopes. E ECONOMIC protected as a heritage component. footpaths across the cultivated (See the conservation systems Significance: ● In some cases, remnant planting landscape. (b) Restore areas of of Green Transitions and Foothills It is an interesting break from the rest of patterns (even single trees) uphold recreation, especially where the Conservation). the agricultural typology of vineyards in the historic character of an area. public has traditionally enjoyed rights ● Always use existing roads and the area. Furthermore, most of the soils Interpretation of these landscape of access. Action might include the pathways, such as old forestry service south of the R45 and a large percentage features as historic remnants should removal of fences and walls, where it roads, before any new routes are of the soils to the north of it are highly occur. is appropriate. (c)Prevent privatisation established. As much wilderness area suitable for agriculture. ● Many of the strongest planting patterns of natural places that form part of the as possible must be left intact. that contribute to the historic character historical public open space resource ● The principle of ‘tread lightly’ in any Development Criteria: of landscape and townscape units, network. (d) Allow for sustainable, activity (and associated development ● The proliferation of non-agricultural are within road reserves and on public traditional use of natural places for requirements e.g. toilets for major uses, particularly in visually prominent land. A maintenance and re-planting recreational, spiritual and resource- events) in this domain should be locations, should be avoided. The plan should be developed. collection purposes. emphasised. potential agricultural use of the land ● Retaining existing vegetation will also ● Where practical, encourage ● Make sure the required provision for should be retained for the future. The help to ‘embed’ new development managed access to wilderness the rehabilitation and maintenance piece of land behind the La Motte within the landscape. areas on the higher slopes. This of the slopes used for traditional and Village has lower agricultural potential. H08 (8.05) Grade IIIa

HISTORIC FRANSCHHOEK

Plane tree avenue along the R45

F08 La Motte The Kastaiings River flows from Perdekop and links up with the Franschhoek River. Large century, is a recently restored historic site on the estate.” Some plantation remnants are areas of critical biodiversity and ecological support areas are found in this unit. The unit found on the higher foothills of the Wemmershoek Mountains. The backdrop of mountains presents a mix of medium to highly suitable soils for agriculture. The dominating pattern on both sides of the R45 adds to its aesthetic appeal and to the notion of a gateway is characterised by the smaller land parcels used as ‘lifestyle’ farms with vineyards and leading towards Franschhoek. Opposite the gate to Pierneef La Motte Restaurant, on organic lines of natural vegetation. In this land unit, residential dwellings are situated the southern side of the road, is an iconic view of a modest vernacular cottage shaded closer to the road than in H06 or H07. Roadside trees are located on both sides of the by two old oaks, set in flat fields against the mountain backdrop. The historic entrance road along the R45, but the line is not consistent and varies in spacing from 15m to 60m to the La Motte farm connected to the R45 at a 90-degree angle, but the new entrance apart. The effect of a gateway is created where the trees are spaced closer together. follows the diagonal line of the early freehold land grants. The historic farm wef of La Motte is found on the northern side of the R45 at some distance from the road. The complex has significant buildings and landscape features and boasts This landscape unit carries significance for its role as gateway towards Franschhoek, and four Provincial Heritage Sites (previous National Monuments) - the manor house (c1751), has historic and aesthetic value. The lightly fenced flat lands on the southern side of Jonkershuis (c1752), cellar (c1782) and the water mill erected between 1752 and 1793. the R45 are planted with low-lying species, such as lavender, thus affording unrestricted New tourist facilities have been added behind. According to the La Motte website (2018): perspective and views from the road. “The La Motte cemetery, reserved for burials of Franschhoek residents since the late 18th

Wemmernshoek Mountains with new development Workers cottage and lavender fields next to the R45 H08 LA MOTTE A ECOLOGICAL B AESTHETIC This landscape unit carries significance for its role as gateway towards Franschhoek, Significance: Significance: and has historic and aesthetic value. The lightly fenced flat lands on the southern Large areas of critical biodiversity and The Kastaiings River flows from Perdekop side of the R45 are planted with low-lying species, such as lavender, thus affording ecological support areas are found in this and links up with the Franschhoek River. unrestricted perspective and views from the road. unit. In this land unit, residential dwellings are MAIN AIM: CONSERVE - The existing character is to be conserved (maintained). Development Criteria: situated closer to the road than in H06 or This may require both protection and maintenance of the significant elements and ● Support protected areas and existing H07. features as well as appropriate development thereof. It includes the promotion of nature reserves, with their landforms these landscapes and places for the appreciation and continuity of their cultural and areas of critical biodiversity, Roadside trees are located on both sides significance. which strongly contribute to the of the road along the R45, but the line “wilderness domain” of the winelands is not consistent and varies in spacing MAIN VALUE: HISTORIC, AESTHETIC- The aesthetic quality, in combination with its historic cultural landscape (See the Foothills from 15m to 60m apart. The effect of a character as a gateway to the historic town and valley of Franschhoek, should be Conservation System). gateway is created where the trees are conserved. View lines over the cultivated field should be protected, the low-lying ● Maintain ecological support areas spaced closer together. lavender field is a rare feature in the winelands. The avenue of trees adds tothe to sites of heritage significance character of this landscape unit as a ‘gateway’, and should be protected as such. (particularly river corridors). Only The backdrop of mountains on both sides permit development that responds to of the R45 adds to its aesthetic appeal CONSERVATION SYSTEM: This Landscape unit stretches across a grade II scenic route, the heritage sensitivity of the site, and and to the notion of a gateway leading where foreground development criteria apply (listed in Appendix 3). It is classified as that will not dominate, or irreparably towards Franschhoek. an exceptionally scenic landscape (a coverage of more than 70% in terms of grade damage the environments adjacent II scenic routes), and has a high visibility (can be seen from 5 out of the 6 Grade II to these heritage sites. Optimize the Development Criteria: scenic route viewsheds in the Franschhoek valley). The top of the mountains in this scenic and recreational opportunities PLANTING PATTERN landscape unit is already a protected area and the Foothills conservation system is provided by water courses and larger ● Traditional planting patterns should also triggered. The old train line (where it is not in use anymore) could be re-utilised by water bodies, especially where they be protected by ensuring that existing considering it as green infrastructure with walking and cycling routes, and facilitating were enjoyed through historic right of tree alignments and copses are not access to nature. There is currently a private attempt to run tourism trams along the way. needlessly destroyed, but reinforced line. Recommendations in heritage reports are to retain the line as a functional track, ● Promote transitions or buffers, and or replaced, thereby enhancing but road re-surfacing has already compromised some crossings. larger connected systems, to nature traditional patterns with appropriate reserves (see Foothill conservation species. DEVIATED LAND USE/USES THAT WILL LIKELY ERODE LANDSCAPE CHARACTER: Over- system). To protect important habitats, ● The felling of mature exotic or scaled private dwellings, cluttered properties, agricultural related practices without provide increased opportunities for indigenous trees within residential mitigation (other than viticulture and orchards), gated residential estates, large scale recreation and the traditional use of areas should be avoided. Instead industrial structures, suburban development, mining, substation, landfill or sewage the landscape. continuous tree canopies should be plant, parking lot (without mitigation), business park, isolated shopping centres. ● Respect development setbacks from encouraged, especially within urban water resources to provide protection environments. from flooding as well as creating ● Significant avenues should be DEVELOPMENT CRITERIA scenic and ecological corridors (see Grade IIIa Please refer to the Conservation Management protected as a heritage component. legislation in place for river corridors). section of the CMP for general guidelines, In this landscape unit the avenue Foothill CS explanatory text/terms, and the process of trees at the entrance of la Motte behind developing the Development Criteria. on both sides of the R45 should be Green Transition CS The Development Criteria sheets are based retained. on Landscape and Townscape typologies ● In some cases, remnant planting Scenic Route CS found within the Stellenbosch Municipality. patterns (even single trees) uphold The focus is on the current heritage elements the historic character of an area. and character of the landscapes, and the Interpretation of these landscape criteria are discussed under the five value features as historic remnants should lines (ecologic, aesthetic, historic, social occur. and economic). They should also be read ● Many of the strongest planting patterns in conjunction with the Heritage Inventory that contribute to the historic character (individual sites) and the Conservation Systems (Appendix 3 of the CMP). of landscape and townscape units, character (refer to the Conservation C HISTORIC are within road reserves and on public Systems). Significance: land. A maintenance and re-planting ● The construction of over-scaled The historic farm werf of La Motte is found on the northern side of the R45 at some plan should be developed. private dwellings and other structures distance from the road. The complex has significant buildings and landscape features in locations of high visual significance, and boasts four Provincial Heritage Sites (previous National Monuments) - the manor LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT and on visually-exposed promontories, house (c1751), Jonkershuis (c1752), cellar (c1782) and the water mill erected between ● The high mountains in the study ridges and ridgelines, should be 1752 and 1793. New tourist facilities have been added behind. According to the La area are landforms vital to its overall discouraged. Preferred locations are Motte website (2018): “The La Motte cemetery, reserved for burials of Franschhoek landscape character. They enclose sites that have already been settled residents since the late 18th century, is a recently restored historic site on the estate.” the valleys and settlements of heritage (for instance consolidated around Some plantation remnants are found on the higher foothills of the Wemmershoek significance. Prevent development farmyards, or near villages and Mountains. on visually sensitive mountain slopes hamlets), or sites ‘tucked into’ the and ridgelines in order to preserve landscape, using the same criteria for The historic entrance to the La Motte farm connected to the R45 at a 90-degree angle, the continuity of the mountains as a site-location as the adjacent, older but the new entrance follows the diagonal line of the early freehold land grants. backdrop. farmsteads. All built structures above ● Limit cultivation and development on the old railway line should undergo a Development Criteria: upper mountain slopes greater than visual impact assessment. PATTERN OF SETTLEMENT 1:4 to protect scenic resources and ● Land use related to agricultural use ● Respect existing patterns, typologies and traditions of settlement-making by water catchments, and to minimise but with large visual intrusions / clutter promoting the continuity of these heritage features. These include; (a) indigenous; visual scarring and erosion. Propose (such as timber yards and nurseries) (b) colonial; and (c) current living heritage in the form of tangible and intangible ‘no-go’ development areas above should be carefully assessed. associations to place. the 260m contour line for cultivation Mitigation measures should be put ● The relocation of farm labour to housing settlements should be discouraged. Where and built structure north of the R45, in place before any development or structures are still used for workers housing, the historic use thereof has value, and and 200m contour line to the south of rezoning is permitted to allow such should be protected as far as possible. the R45. uses. Low-lying vegetation, such as ● Avoid visual clutter that erodes the settlement pattern. ● Retain view-lines and vistas focused the lavender fields, contribute to the ● Give preference to the reinforcement of existing settlements and settlement on prominent natural features scenic quality In this landscape unit. patterns rather than extending development outside the urban edge such as mountain peaks, as these ● It is recommended that visual ● The proliferation of non-agricultural uses, particularly in visually prominent locations, are important place-making and permeability should be maintained should be avoided. This is in order to protect the predominantly agricultural orientating elements for experiencing towards mountains, valleys and character of the landscape. the cultural landscape. They are across open, and cultivated fields. ● The subdivision of farms into smaller uneconomic ‘lifestyle’ plots of less than 3 not only important for landscape (a) Discourage the use of solid walls hectares fundamentally erodes the agricultural character of the landscape. character, but also for water security, around vineyards and agricultural ● Prevent fragmentation and rezoning of wilderness or ‘natural’ areas within the and biodiversity. areas in public view and along scenic municipality, to ensure that the important contribution of wilderness areas to the ● Maintain the balance of Urban, Rural routes. (b) Views should be framed character of a variety of heritage sites is maintained. and Wilderness areas. It is the interplay and enhanced by development ● Maintain larger unified land areas to protect larger landscape continuums that and relationship between these wherever possible. display a unified scenic character. that give the study area its unique ● d 18TH CENTURY WERF ● Respect traditional werf settlement patterns by considering the entire werf as the component of significance. This includes the backdrop of the natural landscape against which it is sited, as well as its spatial structure. Any development that impacts the inherent character of the werf component should be discouraged. ● Interventions on the werf must respect the layout, scale, massing, hierarchy, alignments, access, landscaping and setting. ● Historical layering must be respected and protected. Alterations and additions to conservation-worthy structures should be sympathetic to their architectural character and period detailing. Inappropriate ‘modernisation’ of conservation- worthy structures and traditional werfs should be prevented. Inappropriate maintenance can compromise historic structures. Heritage expertise is required where appropriate. ● Distinguish old from new but ensure visual harmony between historical fabric and new interventions in terms of appropriate scale, massing, form and architectural (a) Avoid privatization or creation of in order to protect the predominantly treatment, without directly copying these details. barriers to traditional access routes. agricultural character of the ● Encourage development that prolongs the longevity of historic family farms as an (b) Retain old roadways, which have landscape. increasingly rare typology. been replaced by newer roads, for ● In general, the subdivision of farms into ● Any development that threatens the inherent character of family burial grounds use as recreation trails. Any new smaller uneconomic ‘lifestyle’ plots of should be discouraged. development should facilitate and less than 3 hectares fundamentally ● Encourage the multifunctional use of existing heritage sites and resources with incorporate these links into their erodes the agricultural character of different but sensitive new uses. Development and adaptive re-use that caters for proposals. the landscape. If this particular pattern the integration of different modes of access and a greater diversity of users should of settlement upholds its economic be encouraged. E ECONOMIC viability, it does not have the same ● Encourage intervention to revive heritage features in decline, by engaging with Significance: negative visual effect as in some other innovative development proposals where appropriate, and considering sensitive The unit presents a mix of medium to areas within the winelands. adaptive reuse strategies for each, specific heritage resource. highly suitable soils for agriculture. The ● Adaptive strategies need to take the surroundings as well as the structures into dominating pattern is characterised by account. the smaller land parcels used as ‘lifestyle’ ● Where the historic function of a building is still intact, the function has heritage value farms with vineyards and organic lines of and should be protected. natural vegetation.

PLANTATION Development Criteria: ● Forestry service roads are difficult to rehabilitate. Instead these roads are part of ● Care should be taken that vineyards the historic layering that tells the story of forestry and could be used for another are not needlessly destroyed, purpose such as recreation. and replaced by non-agricultural ● The remnant plantation adds to the character and layering of this landscape unit development. The potential and could be kept as is, unless environmental concern overrides it. agricultural use of the land should be ● Another method of rehabilitation could entail the production of traditional plant retained for the future. resources, where indigenous knowledge of plants and foraging could be applied. ● Fruit orchards are associated with windbreak trees (see T10.3 in the CMP for windbreak species) which D SOCIAL form distinctive strong lines on the Significance: landscape. In cases where the La Motte represents the regional pattern to place. orchard has lost its function, to retain of property ownership, family dynasties, ● The relocation of farm labour to its heritage values the windbreak trees farming practices, labour relations housing settlements should be should be kept and new development and architectural changes over three discouraged. Where structures are still could be included within existing centuries. used for workers housing, the historic blocks. Opposite the gate to Pierneef La Motte use thereof has value, and should be ● Developments that promote the Restaurant, on the southern side of protected as far as possible. continuity of the core function of the road, is an iconic view of a modest ● Facilitate access to opportunities (a) agriculture within the Stellenbosch vernacular cottage shaded by two old Improve quality of life by encouraging winelands should be promoted. oaks, set in flat fields against the mountain access to nature, health and ● Cultural sites associated with 20th backdrop. It is a protected heritage recreation routes, and the traditional century settlement and farming resource. use of the landscape. (b) Reconsider practices should be protected, areas such as the Jim Fouche picnic particularly church and farm school Development Criteria: site in Franschhoek, and the old railway sites that occur at the intersection of ● Respect existing patterns, typologies line, that offer social and recreational farm roads. The displacement of farm and traditions of settlement-making opportunities for intensive use by employees to nearby townships results by promoting the continuity of these large groups. (See Green Transitions in the loss of integrity of their former heritage features. These include; conservation system.) dwellings. (a) indigenous; (b) colonial; and (c) ● Maintain traditional movement ● The proliferation of non-agricultural current living heritage in the form of patterns across rural landscapes or uses, particularly in visually prominent tangible and intangible associations to places of socio-historical value. locations, should be avoided. This is H09 (6.7) Grade IIIb

HISTORIC FRANSCHHOEK

F09 Transition unit to historic Franschhoek This landscape unit acts as a threshold between the larger area of Drakenstein and the This landscape unit is part of a pattern of open views and enclosed land units along the more defined Franschhoek. Pockets of critical biodiversity elements are found within this R45 before entering Franschhoek and builds up to the whole scenic experience. unit and the soils present a mixture of medium to highly suitable agricultural soils, mainly arranged along the alluvial lines. Roadside trees are located on the northern side of the R45 entering Franschhoek, spaced at approximately 30m, leading up to the gateway in unit H08. The Franschhoek River winds along the southern portion of this land unit and is characterised by dense vegetation along its banks. Larger units of open fallow land and vineyards, with a cluster of ‘lifestyle’ farms adjacent to the R45, are located within the eastern portion of the land unit. Moving away from the road, farm clusters and smaller land parcels increase. A small semi-circular pattern of planted vineyards is a rare feature next to the road. Large views are afforded from the road towards the Wemmershoek Mountains, where a few intrusive mansions on the edge of the mountain draw attention. Views over floodplain towards mountains

View towards the Wemmershoek Mountains H09 Transition unit to historic Franschhoek A ECOLOGICAL Franschhoek, spaced at approximately This landscape unit is part of a pattern of open views and enclosed land units along Significance: 30m, leading up to the gateway in unit the R45 before entering Franschhoek and builds up to the whole scenic experience. Pockets of critical biodiversity elements H08. are found within this unit. The Franschhoek MAIN AIM: ENHANCE (MANAGE) landscapes and townscapes: By improving land River winds along the southern portion Large views are afforded from the road parcels or places which are in decline, by strengthening or reinforcing characteristic of this land unit and is characterised by towards the Wemmershoek Mountains, elements and features, or by regenerating landscapes through introducing new densely vegetated banks. where a few intrusive mansions on the elements or features, or adapting them in order to revive lost fabric and bring new life edge of the mountain draw attention. to heritage environments. Development Criteria: ● Support protected areas and existing Development Criteria: MAIN VALUE: AESTHETIC - The aesthetic quality in the build-up to the gateway nature reserves, with their landforms LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT landscape unit of ‘La Motte’ view lines over the cultivated field, should be protected. and areas of critical biodiversity, ● The high mountains in the study This landscape unit is more important from a distance as it is seen from many grade II which strongly contribute to the area are landforms vital to its overall scenic routes. “wilderness domain” of the winelands landscape character. They enclose cultural landscape (See the Foothills the valleys and settlements of heritage CONSERVATION SYSTEM: This Landscape unit stretches across a grade II scenic route, Conservation System). significance. Prevent development where foreground development criteria apply (listed in Appendix 3). It is classified as ● Maintain ecological support areas on visually sensitive mountain slopes an exceptionally scenic landscape (a coverage of more than 70% in terms of grade II to sites of heritage significance and ridgelines in order to preserve scenic routes), and has a high visibility (can be seen from 5 out of the 6 Grade II scenic (particularly river corridors). Only the continuity of the mountains as a route viewsheds in the Franschhoek valley. The top of the mountains in this landscape permit development that responds to backdrop. unit is already a protected area, the Foothills conservation system is also triggered. The the heritage sensitivity of the site, and ● Limit cultivation and development on old train line (where it is not in use anymore) could be re-utilised by considering it as that will not dominate, or irreparably upper mountain slopes greater than green infrastructure with walking and cycling routes, and facilitating access to nature. damage the environments adjacent 1:4 to protect scenic resources and to these heritage sites. Optimize the water catchments, and to minimise DEVIATED LAND USE/USES THAT WILL LIKELY ERODE LANDSCAPE CHARACTER: Over- scenic and recreational opportunities visual scarring and erosion. Propose scaled private dwellings, cluttered properties, agricultural related practices without provided by water courses and larger ‘no-go’ development areas above mitigation (other than viticulture and orchards), gated residential estates, large scale water bodies, especially where they the 260m contour line for cultivation industrial structures, suburban development, mining, substation, landfill or sewage were enjoyed through historic right of and built structures north of the R45. plant, parking lot (without mitigation), business park, isolated shopping centres. way. ● Retain view-lines and vistas focused ● Promote transitions or buffers, and on prominent natural features larger connected systems, to nature such as mountain peaks, as these reserves (see Foothill conservation are important place-making and system). To protect important habitats, orientating elements for experiencing provide increased opportunities for the cultural landscape. They are DEVELOPMENT CRITERIA recreation and the traditional use of not only important for landscape Grade II Please refer to the Conservation Management the landscape. character, but also for water security, section of the CMP for general guidelines, ● Respect development setbacks from and biodiversity. Foothill CS explanatory text/terms, and the process water resources to provide protection ● Maintain the balance of Urban, Rural behind developing the Development Criteria. from flooding as well as creating and Wilderness areas. It is the interplay Green Transition CS The Development Criteria sheets are based scenic and ecological corridors (see and relationship between these on Landscape and Townscape typologies legislation in place for river corridors). that give the study area its unique Scenic Route CS found within the Stellenbosch Municipality. character (refer to the Conservation The focus is on the current heritage elements B AESTHETIC Systems). and character of the landscapes, and the Significance: ● The construction of over-scaled criteria are discussed under the five value This landscape unit acts as a threshold private dwellings and other structures lines (ecologic, aesthetic, historic, social between the broader area of Drakenstein in locations of high visual significance, and economic). They should also be read and the more defined Franschhoek. and on visually-exposed promontories, in conjunction with the Heritage Inventory ridges and ridgelines, should be (individual sites) and the Conservation Systems Roadside trees are located on the discouraged. Preferred locations are (Appendix 3 of the CMP). northern side of the R45 entering sites that have already been settled (for instance consolidated around rezoning is permitted to allow such farmyards, or near villages and uses. hamlets), or sites ‘tucked into’ the ● It is recommended that visual landscape, using the same criteria for permeability should be maintained site-location as the adjacent, older towards mountains, valleys and farmsteads. across open, and cultivated fields. ● Land use related to agricultural use (a) Discourage the use of solid walls but with large visual intrusions / clutter around vineyards and agricultural (such as timber yards and nurseries) areas in public view and along scenic should be carefully assessed. routes. (b) Views should be framed Mitigation measures should be put and enhanced by development in place before any development or wherever possible.

C HISTORIC Significance: Moving away from the road, farm clusters and smaller land parcels increase. A small semi-circular pattern of planted vineyards is a rare feature next to the road. Two altered farmyards with prominent planting structures are noted in this landscape unit.

Development Criteria: PLANTING PATTERN ● Traditional planting patterns should be protected by ensuring that existing tree ● Encourage development that prolongs the longevity of historic family farms as an alignments and copses are not needlessly destroyed, but reinforced or replaced, increasingly rare typology. thereby enhancing traditional patterns with appropriate species. ● Any development that threatens the inherent character of family burial grounds ● The felling of mature exotic or indigenous trees within residential areas should be should be discouraged. avoided. Instead continuous tree canopies should be encouraged, especially ● Encourage the multifunctional use of existing heritage sites and resources with within urban environments. different but sensitive new uses. Development and adaptive re-use that caters for ● Significant avenues should be protected as a heritage component. the integration of different modes of access and a greater diversity of users should ● In some cases, remnant planting patterns (even single trees) uphold the historic be encouraged. character of an area. Interpretation of these landscape features as historic ● Encourage intervention to revive heritage features in decline, by engaging with remnants should occur. innovative development proposals where appropriate, and considering sensitive ● Many of the strongest planting patterns that contribute to the historic character of adaptive reuse strategies for each, specific heritage resource. landscape and townscape units, are within road reserves and on public land. A ● Adaptive strategies need to take the surroundings as well as the structures into maintenance and re-planting plan should be developed. account.

18TH CENTURY WERF ● Respect traditional werf settlement patterns by considering the entire werf as the D SOCIAL component of significance. This includes the backdrop of the natural landscape Significance: opportunity to incorporate some of against which it is sited, as well as its spatial structure. Any development that Insert text here these ideas. (please refer to the Green impacts the inherent character of the werf component should be discouraged. Transitions conservation system) ● Interventions on the werf must respect the layout, scale, massing, hierarchy, Development Criteria: ● Maintain traditional movement alignments, access, landscaping and setting. ● Facilitate access to opportunities (a) patterns across rural landscapes or ● Historical layering must be respected and protected. Alterations and additions Improve quality of life by encouraging to places of socio-historical value. to conservation-worthy structures should be sympathetic to their architectural access to nature, health and (a) Avoid privatization or creation of character and period detailing. Inappropriate ‘modernisation’ of conservation- recreation routes, and the traditional barriers to traditional access routes. worthy structures and traditional werfs should be prevented. Inappropriate use of the landscape. (b) Reconsider (b) Retain old roadways, which have maintenance can compromise historic structures. Heritage expertise is required areas such as the Jim Fouche picnic been replaced by newer roads, for where appropriate. site in Franschhoek, which offers social use as recreation trails. Any new ● Distinguish old from new but ensure visual harmony between historical fabric and and recreational opportunities for development should still facilitate new interventions in terms of appropriate scale, massing, form and architectural intensive use by large groups. In this and incorporate these links into their treatment, without directly copying these details. case, the old railway line presents an proposals. E ECONOMIC Significance: The soils present a mixture of medium to highly suitable agricultural soils, mainly arranged along the alluvial lines.

Larger units of open fallow land and vineyards, with a cluster of ‘lifestyle’ farms adjacent to the R45, are located within the eastern portion of the land unit.

Development Criteria: century settlement and farming ● Care should be taken that vineyards practices should be protected, are not needlessly destroyed, particularly church and farm school and replaced by non-agricultural sites that occur at the intersection of development. The potential farm roads. The displacement of farm agricultural use of the land should be employees to nearby townships results retained for the future. in the loss of integrity of their former ● Fruit orchards are associated with dwellings. windbreak trees (see T10.3 in the ● The proliferation of non-agricultural CMP for windbreak species) which uses, particularly in visually prominent form distinctive strong lines on the locations, should be avoided. This is landscape. In cases where the in order to protect the predominantly orchard has lost its function, to retain agricultural character of the its heritage values the windbreak trees landscape. should be kept and new development ● In general, the subdivision of farms into could be included within existing smaller uneconomic ‘lifestyle’ plots of blocks. less than 3 hectares fundamentally ● Developments that promote the erodes the agricultural character of continuity of the core function of the landscape. However, negative agriculture within the Stellenbosch visual effects in this land unit are winelands should be promoted. less than in other areas within the ● Cultural sites associated with 20th winelands.

The area that transitions from Dwarsrivier to • Floodplains with large windbreaks and Franschhoek is a combination of completely vineyards along the Wemmershoek River. different land units. These vary from vineyards to • Open rehabilitated floodplains below the H FRANSCHHOEK rehabilitated plantations of the Berg River Valley, Berg River with the Groot Drakenstein and and the valley bottoms of the Wemmershoek and Middelberg mountains as edges to the dam. Franschhoek rivers, each with its own backdrop of • Bakenkop and its distinctive soil conditions Wemmershoek Area mountain ranges. The character of the units along with the Wemmershoek village and H10-H14 the R45 are made up of groups of associated wetland features. features: • Bakenkop with vineyards. • Foothills of the Groot Drakenstein mountains with open fallow land.

H Franschhoek Landscape Unit Rating H10 H11 H12 H13 H14 Item Item Value Weighte Value Weighte Value Weighte Value Weighte Value Weighte Protected areas 10 Critical Biodiversity Ecological area 9 Ecolofical support areas 7 agriculture 4 Urban 1 20% 9 1.8 9 1.8 8 1.6 9 1.8 10 2 Viewshed, Scene, Diversity, enclosure, Aesthetic unity, colour, texture, balance, proportion, form 20% 3 0.6 6 1.2 7 1.4 4 0.8 2 0.4 Age, Pattern representivity and Historic accosiation, rarity, condition 25% 3 0.75 3 0.75 7 1.75 3 0.75 2 0.5 Meaning and cultural accosiations, Social Church, School, Creche, recreational, community 10% 8 0.8 2 0.2 4 0.4 5 0.5 4 0.4 Tourism and agricultural potential High Economical soil suitability 9 medium soil suitability 7 Fragmented 5 Disturbed 2 25% 7 1.75 3 0.75 9 2.25 6 1.5 6 1.5 Degree of acceptable 100% 5.7 4.7 7.4 5.35 4.8

NCW 0- 2 Grade 3c 2 to 4.9 Grade 3b 5 to 7.9 Grade 3a 8 to 10 Grade 2 8.5 to 10 H10 (5.7) Grade IIIb

TRANSITION AREA

Wemmershoek sawmill H10 Wemmershoek The entire land unit is made is up of critical biodiversity areas in natural and degraded The sawmill and school have a high level of social significance and the surroundings state and the soils are generally moderately suitable for agriculture. It has a gradual have ecological significance. slope towards the base of the rocky outcrops of the Wemmershoek mountains, with Bakenskop forming the visual backdrop. A large wetland is situated between the old railway line and R45. Most of this land unit is still in a natural condition. The Wemmershoek Sawmill acts as a node and the village on the eastern side is laid out in a regular grid, diagonally to the road. The area around the sawmill and the surrounding landscape appears undefined. This land unit mostly consists of open land that formed part of a historic outspan. The Primary School, sawmill and village, as well as the sewage works on the western boundary of this land unit, are intrusive on that space, yet the sawmill and some homes are significant elements within the cultural landscape.

Wemmershoek H10 WEMMERSHOEK A ECOLOGICAL B AESTHETIC The land surrounding a settlement associated with forestry, a dwindling economic Significance: Significance: resource. The entire land unit is made is up of The unit has a gradual slope towards critical biodiversity areas in natural and the base of the rocky outcrops of MAIN AIM: INTERVENE (CHANGE) in a deliberate, planned way to improve a land degraded state. The surroundings have the Wemmershoek mountains, with parcel. This approach may be appropriate where the landscape or townscape has ecological significance. Bakenskop forming the visual backdrop. declined beyond the point where enhancement is possible. Actions include: (a) To A large wetland is situated between rehabilitate the site to its previous, or natural character, or (b) to accelerate change Development Criteria: the old railway line and R45. Most of this towards a new or strengthened character and resilient landscape. The resilient ● Support protected areas and existing land unit is still in a natural condition. The heritage landscapes in Stellenbosch, in which development and intervention are most nature reserves, with their landforms Wemmershoek Sawmill acts as a node desirable, are those landscapes or units that historically (and almost sporadically) and areas of critical biodiversity, and the village on the eastern side is underwent change, but continued to form a new typology of equal aesthetic within which strongly contribute to the laid out in a regular grid, diagonally to the landscape, strengthening existing spatial patterns. “wilderness domain” of the winelands the road. The area around the sawmill cultural landscape (See the Foothills and the surrounding landscape appears Wemmershoek sawmill MAIN VALUE: ECOLOGIC, SOCIAL - Most of this landscape unit comprise a critical Conservation System). undefined. biodiversity area that is in a degraded state, where active rehabilitation needs to be ● Maintain ecological support areas applied to improve the current character. Around the old Wemmershoek sawmill, to sites of heritage significance Development Criteria: change should be focused around creating a resilient community that can withstand (particularly river corridors). Only SETTLEMENT PATTERN: the ups and downs off the economic climate in the winelands. There could be adaptive permit development that responds to ● Respect existing patterns, typologies reuse strategies that could be applied to the sawmill (once closed). The greenfield the heritage sensitivity of the site, and and traditions of settlement-making areas on the opposite side of the R301 include a wetland and historic outspan area that will not dominate, or irreparably by promoting the continuity of these (see guidelines below) and should be retained. The brownfields sites should rather damage the environments adjacent heritage features. These include; earmarked for future development. to these heritage sites. Optimize the (a) indigenous; (b) colonial; and (c) scenic and recreational opportunities current living heritage in the form of CONSERVATION SYSTEM: A large piece of this landscape unit is a protected area. provided by water courses and larger tangible and intangible associations Foreground criteria applies to the 0-500m buffer around the grade II scenic route. This water bodies, especially where they to place. landscape unit, although inconspicuous, is the one landscape parcel that can be seen were enjoyed through historic right of ● Gentrification of rural settlements through lifestyle ‘rural’ estates be by all the Grade II scenic routes in the Franschhoek Valley, and therefore plays a vital way. discouraged. role in the general upholding of character in the area. The Foothill conservation system ● Promote transitions or buffers, and larger connected systems, to nature ● Avoid visual clutter that erodes the is triggered. Wemmershoek is partially in the Drakenstein Heritage Survey. Conservation reserves (see Foothill conservation settlement pattern. Area 14. system). To protect important habitats, ● Promote urban densification to provide increased opportunities for protect the rural landscape as the DEVIATED LAND USE/USES THAT WILL LIKELY ERODE LANDSCAPE CHARACTER: recreation and the traditional use of main communal asset. Urban and Overscaled private dwellings, cluttered properties, gated residential estates, suburban the landscape. rural regeneration should include development, mining, substation, landfill or sewage plant, parking lot (without ● Respect development setbacks from former industrial sites. Wemmershoek mitigation), business park, isolated shopping centres water resources to provide protection village is seen as an urban node. from flooding as well as creating ● Give preference to the reinforcement DEVELOPMENT CRITERIA Grade IIIb scenic and ecological corridors (see of existing settlements and settlement Please refer to the Conservation Management legislation in place for river corridors). patterns rather than extending section of the CMP for general guidelines, development outside the urban edge. Foothill CS explanatory text/terms, and the process Here the urban edge should not extend behind developing the Development Criteria. across the R301, and interventions Green Transition CS The Development Criteria sheets are based should be in line with development on Landscape and Townscape typologies on commonage/outspan land (see Scenic Route CS found within the Stellenbosch Municipality. Historic) and ecologically sensitive The focus is on the current heritage elements sites (wetland). and character of the landscapes, and the criteria are discussed under the five value VIEWS lines (ecologic, aesthetic, historic, social ● The high mountains in the study and economic). They should also be read area are landforms vital to its overall in conjunction with the Heritage Inventory (individual sites) and the Conservation Systems (Appendix 3 of the CMP). landscape character. They enclose ● Avoid development or infrastructure D SOCIAL could entail the production of the valleys and settlements of heritage (such as buildings, wind turbines and Significance: traditional plant resources, where significance. Prevent development power lines), on crests or ridgelines The Primary School, sawmill and village, indigenous knowledge of plants and on visually sensitive mountain slopes because of impact on the visual as well as the sewage works on the foraging could be applied. and ridgelines in order to preserve sensitivity of skylines. western boundary of this land unit, are ● New development that reinforces the continuity of the mountains as a ● Retain view-lines and vistas focused intrusive on that space, yet the sawmill segregated planning principles should backdrop. on prominent natural features and some homes are significant elements be discouraged. ● Limit cultivation and development on such as mountain peaks, as these within the cultural landscape. The sawmill ● Settlements often have a historic core upper mountain slopes greater than are important place-making and and school have a high level of social that often comprises the oldest fabric 1:4 to protect scenic resources and orientating elements for experiencing significance and the surroundings have as well as the buildings that perform water catchments, and to minimise the cultural landscape. They are ecological significance. social and spiritual functions within visual scarring and erosion. Propose not only important for landscape the community. These should be ‘no-go’ development areas above character, but also for water security, The Cochoqua Tribe often holds meetings protected as Special Areas within the the 180m contour line. and biodiversity. here, and these are generally combined neighbourhoods. with the making of potjiekos as a cultural event (from the public participation QUALITY OF LIFE process). ● Facilitate access to opportunities (a) Improve quality of life by encouraging There is a strong association to place, access to nature, health and especially to schools, churches and recreation routes, and the traditional burial places. (Please see entry S78 use of the landscape (refer to the in Wemmershoek that explains this Conservation Systems). (b) Reconsider association.) areas such as the Jim Fouche picnic site in Franschhoek. that offers social Development Criteria: and recreational opportunities for FORESTRY intensive use by large groups. ● Village settlement associated with C HISTORIC forestry is often made up of a grid ADAPTIVE REUSE Significance: patterned street network, in close ● Respect existing patterns, typologies This land unit mostly consists of open land that formed part of a historic outspan. proximity to the sawmill. A key feature and traditions of settlement-making in these settlements is the use of timber by promoting the continuity of these Development Criteria: as a construction material. Where heritage features. These include; ● Surviving examples (wagon routes, outspans, and commonage), where they are these settlements have heritage (a) indigenous; (b) colonial; and (c) owned in some public or communal way (or by a body responsible for acting in the significance and historic character, current living heritage in the form of public interest) and where they are found to be actively operating in a communal new development that differs in mass tangible and intangible associations way, will have cultural and heritage value and should be enhanced and retained. and grain should be discouraged. to place. ● Maintain traditional movement patterns across rural landscapes or to places of ● Rehabilitation of forestry areas ● Encourage the multifunctional use of socio-historical value. (a) Avoid privatization or creation of barriers to traditional should be applied in the same way existing heritage sites and resources access routes. (b) Retain old roadways, which have been replaced by newer rehabilitation is conducted in mining with different but sensitive new uses. roads, for use as recreation trails. operations - from the onset. This Development and adaptive re- ● Commonages and outspans were located at water points, and these places were includes adaptive reuse strategies for use that caters for the integration likely gathering points before the arrival of colonists and continued to provide the sawmill structure to continue an of different modes of access and communal resources. In the mid-20th century many old Commonages came economic role for the community, a greater diversity of users should under the ownership of the Municipality, and have since been rented out to private even after closure of such operation be encouraged. The sawmill could individuals or organisations. (see quality of life below). potentially be adaptively re-used to ● The Municipality should facilitate the use of common land in a way that promotes ● Forestry service roads are difficult to fulfill a recreational role and include the well- being and quality of life of the public. These sites can play a restorative rehabilitate. Instead these roads are mixed use development (market role within the community, for instance who have limited alternative opportunities part of the historic layering that tells the space, tourism), that in return also for recreation. story of forestry and could be used for spark economic opportunities for the ● No residential or industrial structures should be permitted on commonage land. another purpose such as recreation. residents of Wemmershoek. ● Also see the development criteria under social for ways in which this could be ● Another method of rehabilitation ● Encourage intervention to revive facilitated. heritage features in decline, by engaging with innovative development proposals where appropriate, and considering sensitive adaptive reuse strategies for each, specific heritage resource. The old railway line service road could be used as cycle route and walking route, as alternative mode of transport to the town of Franschhoek. ● Adaptive strategies need to take the surroundings as well as the structures into account. ● Where the historic function of a building is still intact, the function has heritage value and should be protected.

E ECONOMIC Significance: The soils are generally moderately suitable for agriculture (viticulture).

Development Criteria: ● Prevent fragmentation and rezoning of wilderness or ‘natural’ areas within the municipality, to ensure that the important contribution of wilderness areas to the character of a variety of heritage sites is maintained. ● Maintain larger unified land areas to protect larger landscape continuums that display a unified scenic character H11 (4.7) Grade IIIc

TRANSITION AREA

H11 Bakenkop The distinct geology and areas of critical diversity on the slopes of Bakenskop should be read with land unit H10. What differentiates this land unit is the presence of vineyards, open fallow land, and a farm cluster at the foot of Bakenskop. Soils in this area are highly suitable for agriculture. A strip of leftover pine trees (windbreak) follows the semicircular placement of the homes along the foot of Bakenskop. Bakenskop itself is highly visible from the surrounding landscape.

This land unit has landscape and ecological significance in the larger context.

Bakenkop H11 BAKENKOP A ECOLOGICAL the cultural landscape. They are This land unit has landscape and ecological significance in the larger context. Significance: not only important for landscape The distinct geology and areas of critical character, but also for water security, MAIN AIM: ENHANCE (MANAGE) landscapes and townscapes: By improving land diversity on the slopes of Bakenskop and biodiversity. parcels or places which are in decline by strengthening or reinforcing characteristic should be read with land unit H10. ● Maintain the balance of Urban, Rural elements and features, or by regenerating landscapes through introducing new and Wilderness areas. It is the interplay elements or features, or adapting them in order to revive lost fabric and bring new life Development Criteria: and relationship between these to heritage environments. The landscape unit is not in decline, but has relatively low ● Support protected areas and existing that give the study area its unique visual and aesthetic appeal, and heritage value. nature reserves, with their landforms character (refer to the Conservation and areas of critical biodiversity, Systems). MAIN VALUE: ECOLOGIC - The most of this landscape unit is a rocky outcrop that is part which strongly contribute to the ● The construction of over-scaled of a protected area. “wilderness domain” of the winelands private dwellings and other structures cultural landscape (See the Foothills in locations of high visual significance, CONSERVATION SYSTEM: A large piece of this landscape unit is a protected area. Conservation System). and on visually-exposed promontories, Foreground criteria applies to the 0-500m buffer around the grade IIIb scenic route. This ● Avoid development or infrastructure ridges and ridgelines, should be landscape is not highly visible, with low aesthetic value. The Green Transitions system (such as wind turbines, communication discouraged. Preferred locations are is triggered, and on a municipal scale, advocates the agricultural character and towers and power lines) on rocky sites that have already been settled openness on edges of the Stellenbosch municipality. The agricultural land is therefore outcrops, because of their high visibility (for instance consolidated around an important feature to enhance. and the visual sensitivity of the skyline. farmyards, or near villages and hamlets), or sites ‘tucked into’ the DEVIATED LAND USE/USES THAT WILL LIKELY ERODE LANDSCAPE CHARACTER: Over- B AESTHETIC landscape, using the same criteria for scaled private dwellings, cluttered properties, agricultural related practices (other than Significance: site-location as the adjacent, older viticulture and orchards), gated residential estates, large scale industrial structures, A strip of leftover pine trees (windbreak) farmsteads. suburban development, mining, school complex, substation, landfill or sewage plant, follows the semicircular placement of the ● Land use related to agricultural use parking lot (without mitigation), market, business park, isolated shopping centres. homes along the foot of Bakenskop. but with large visual intrusions / clutter (such as timber yards and nurseries) Development Criteria: should be carefully assessed. DEVELOPMENT CRITERIA LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT Mitigation measures should be put Grade IIIc Please refer to the Conservation Management ● The high mountains in the study in place before any development or section of the CMP for general guidelines, area are landforms vital to its overall rezoning is permitted to allow such Foothill CS explanatory text/terms, and the process landscape character. They enclose uses. behind developing the Development Criteria. the valleys and settlements of heritage ● It is recommended that visual Green Transition CS The Development Criteria sheets are based significance. Prevent development permeability should be maintained on Landscape and Townscape typologies on visually sensitive mountain slopes towards mountains, valleys and Scenic Route CS found within the Stellenbosch Municipality. and ridgelines in order to preserve across open, and cultivated fields. The focus is on the current heritage elements the continuity of the mountains as a (a) Discourage the use of solid walls and character of the landscapes, and the backdrop. around vineyards and agricultural criteria are discussed under the five value ● Limit cultivation and development on areas in public view and along scenic lines (ecologic, aesthetic, historic, social upper mountain slopes greater than routes. (b) Views should be framed and economic). They should also be read 1:4 to protect scenic resources and and enhanced by development in conjunction with the Heritage Inventory water catchments, and to minimise wherever possible. (individual sites) and the Conservation Systems visual scarring and erosion. Propose (Appendix 3 of the CMP). ‘no-go’ development areas that are in D SOCIAL a natural state or related to agriculture Significance: on highly suitable soil. Access to nature. ● Retain view-lines and vistas focused on prominent natural features Development Criteria: such as mountain peaks, as these ● Where practical, encourage are important place-making and managed access to wilderness orientating elements for experiencing areas on the higher slopes. This will allow residents and visitors to any significant cultural sites, such as C HISTORIC the winelands opportunities to burials and veldkos/medicinal plant Significance: experience the wilderness domain, resources, are not disturbed. Bakenskop itself is a highly visible landmark in the surrounding landscape. which is a key component within the cultural landscape as a whole, E ECONOMIC Development Criteria: and to experience the sense of Significance: ● Names of mountain passes and water courses that reference a traditional use during interconnectedness of the wilderness, What differentiates this land unit is the the time of the hunter-gatherers and herders of the Cape should be celebrated. agricultural and urban domains presence of vineyards, open fallow Public access to these sites should be encouraged. through views from the upper slopes. land, and a farm cluster at the foot of ● All archaeological material is protected in terms of the NHRA. (See the conservation systems Bakenskop. Soils in this area are highly of Green Transitions and Foothills suitable for agriculture (viticulture). Conservation). ● Always use existing roads and Development Criteria: pathways, such as old forestry service ● Care should be taken that vineyards roads, before any new routes are are not needlessly destroyed, established. As much wilderness area and replaced by non-agricultural as possible must be left intact. development. The potential ● The principle of ‘tread lightly’ in any agricultural use of the land should be activity (and associated development retained for the future. requirements e.g. toilets for major ● Fruit orchards are associated events) in this domain should be with windbreak trees (see T10.3 emphasised. for windbreak species) which ● Make sure the required provision for form distinctive strong lines on the the rehabilitation and maintenance landscape. In cases where the of the slopes used for traditional and orchard has lost its function, to retain recreational purposes is in place. its heritage values the windbreak trees ● Mountain slopes have been used should be kept and new development for traditional practices for many could be included within existing years, and care should be taken that blocks H12 (7.4) Grade IIIb

TRANSITION AREA

H12 Floodplains of the Wemmershoek River and Kleinberg Bobbejaankrans and Kleinberg, together with the flat floodplains of the Wemmershoek This is an interesting cultural landscape with aesthetic and scenic significance, and with River and the winding R301, comprise the main structuring components of this land a degree of rarity. The removal of strong lines and windbreak trees in this landscape unit. Large critical biodiversity areas in natural condition are found on the slopes of unit would be a great loss. The Hollandse Molen and the recreational village of timber Bobbejaank rans to the no r th and ecological suppo r t a reas a re located a round Kleinberg structures is an intrusion next to the R301. and the river. More than half of the unit presents highly suitable soils for agriculture. This land unit is stitched with a well-defined and bold landscape with large windbreak trees, vineyards and open fallow land on land parcels of various shapes and sizes. These add texture to the surrounding landscape and stimulate an unusual interest. The rocky outcrops of Bobbejaankrans, that contrast with the green tree-covered Kleinberg, are stitched together by strong, regular lines of large windbreak trees. The further contrast of the flat floodplain against Kleinberg makes this landscape even more dramatic. An L-shaped early freehold land grant is situated at the foot of Kleinberg. This coincides with a handsome Victorian farm complex, Antioch, set in a magnificent landscape setting, replete with a fine avenue and many mature trees.

View towards Kleinberg H12 FLOODPLAINS OF THE WEMMERSHOEK RIVER AND KLEINBERG A ECOLOGICAL vineyards and open fallow land on land This is an interesting cultural landscape with aesthetic and scenic significance, and with Significance: parcels of various shapes and sizes. These a degree of rarity. The removal of strong lines and windbreak trees in this landscape Large critical biodiversity areas in natural add texture to the surrounding landscape unit would be a great loss. The Hollandsche Molen and the recreational village of condition are found on the slopes and stimulate an unusual interest. timber structures is an intrusion next to the R301. of Bobbejaankrans to the north and ecological support areas are located The rocky outcrops of Bobbejaankrans, MAIN AIM: CONSERVE (MAINTAIN) existing character: This may require both protection around Kleinberg and the river. that contrast with the green tree-covered and maintenance of the significant elements and features as well as appropriate Kleinberg, are stitched together by strong, development thereof. It includes the promotion of these landscapes and places for Development Criteria: regular lines of large windbreak trees. the appreciation and continuity of their cultural significance. ● Support protected areas and existing nature reserves, with their landforms The further contrast of the flat floodplain MAIN VALUE: ECOLOGIC, AESTHETIC, ECONOMIC- This landscape unit has a high level and areas of critical biodiversity, against Kleinberg makes this landscape of ecological value, and is highly visible. which strongly contribute to the even more dramatic. “wilderness domain” of the winelands CONSERVATION SYSTEM: Foreground criteria applies to the 0-500m buffer around the cultural landscape (See the Foothills Development Criteria: grade IIIb scenic route. This landscape has a high visibility in the larger context. The Green Conservation System). ● It is recommended that visual Transitions system is triggered, and on a municipal scale, advocates the agricultural ● Maintain ecological support areas permeability should be maintained character and openness on edges of the Stellenbosch municipality. The agricultural to sites of heritage significance towards mountains, valleys and land is therefore an important feature to conserve. The Foothills conservation system is (particularly river corridors). Only across open, and cultivated fields. triggered. permit development that responds to (a) Discourage the use of solid walls the heritage sensitivity of the site, and around vineyards and agricultural DEVIATED LAND USE/USES THAT WILL LIKELY ERODE LANDSCAPE CHARACTER: Overscaled that will not dominate, or irreparably areas in public view and along scenic private dwellings, cluttered properties, agricultural related practices (other than damage the environments adjacent routes. (b) Views should be framed viticulture and orchards), gated residential estates, large scale industrial structures, to these heritage sites. Optimize the and enhanced by development suburban development, mining, substation, landfill or sewage plant, parking lot scenic and recreational opportunities wherever possible. (without mitigation), business park, isolated shopping centre. provided by water courses and larger ● Maintain the balance of Urban, Rural water bodies, especially where they and Wilderness areas. It is the interplay were enjoyed through historic right of and relationship between these DEVELOPMENT CRITERIA way. that give the study area its unique Grade IIIb Please refer to the Conservation Management ● Respect development setbacks from character (refer to the Conservation section of the CMP for general guidelines, water resources to provide protection Systems). Foothill CS explanatory text/terms, and the process from flooding as well as creating behind developing the Development Criteria. scenic and ecological corridors (see LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT Green Transition CS The Development Criteria sheets are based legislation in place for river corridors). ● Fruit orchards are associated on Landscape and Townscape typologies with windbreak trees (see T10.3 Scenic Route CS found within the Stellenbosch Municipality. B AESTHETIC for windbreak species) which The focus is on the current heritage elements Significance: form distinctive strong lines on the and character of the landscapes, and the Bobbejaankrans and Kleinberg, landscape. In cases where the criteria are discussed under the five value together with the flat floodplains of the orchard has lost its function, to retain lines (ecologic, aesthetic, historic, social Wemmershoek River and the winding its heritage values the windbreak trees and economic). They should also be read R301, comprise the main structuring should be kept and new development in conjunction with the Heritage Inventory components of this land unit. This land unit could be included within existing (individual sites) and the Conservation Systems is stitched with a well-defined and bold blocks. (Appendix 3 of the CMP). landscape with large windbreak trees, ● Limit cultivation and development on upper mountain slopes greater than Mitigation measures should be put 1:4 to protect scenic resources and in place before any development or water catchments, and to minimise rezoning is permitted to allow such visual scarring and erosion. Propose uses. ‘no-go’ development areas above ● Avoid development or infrastructure the 220m contour line. (such as wind turbines, communication ● Land use related to agricultural use towers and power lines) on rocky but with large visual intrusions / clutter outcrops, because of their high visibility (such as timber yards and nurseries) and the visual sensitivity of the skyline. should be carefully assessed. ● d

C HISTORIC Significance: An L-shaped early freehold land grant is situated at the foot of Kleinberg. This coincides with a handsome Victorian farm complex, Antioch, set in a magnificent landscape setting, replete with a fine avenue and many mature trees. 18TH CENTURY WERF Development Criteria: ● Respect traditional werf settlement patterns by considering the entire werf as the PLANTING PATTERN component of significance. This includes the backdrop of the natural landscape ● Traditional planting patterns should be protected by ensuring that existing tree against which it is sited, as well as its spatial structure. Any development that alignments and copses are not needlessly destroyed, but reinforced or replaced, impacts the inherent character of the werf component should be discouraged. thereby enhancing traditional patterns with appropriate species. Especially the ● Interventions on the werf must respect the layout, scale, massing, hierarchy, strong lines of windbreak trees in this landscape unit. alignments, access, landscaping and setting. ● The felling of mature exotic or indigenous trees within residential areas should be ● Historical layering must be respected and protected. Alterations and additions avoided. Instead continuous tree canopies should be encouraged, especially to conservation-worthy structures should be sympathetic to their architectural within urban environments. character and period detailing. Inappropriate ‘modernisation’ of conservation- ● Significant avenues should be protected as a heritage component. worthy structures and traditional werfs should be prevented. Inappropriate ● In some cases, remnant planting patterns (even single trees) uphold the historic maintenance can compromise historic structures. Heritage expertise is required character of an area. Interpretation of these landscape features as historic where appropriate. remnants should occur. ● Distinguish old from new but ensure visual harmony between historical fabric and ● Many of the strongest planting patterns that contribute to the historic character of new interventions in terms of appropriate scale, massing, form and architectural landscape and townscape units, are within road reserves and on public land. A treatment, without directly copying these details. maintenance and re-planting plan should be developed. ● Encourage development that prolongs the longevity of historic family farms as an increasingly rare typology. FREEHOLD ● Any development that threatens the inherent character of family burial grounds ● Evidence of the earliest occupation of the landscape is not always visible. Should should be discouraged. any be uncovered, the provincial heritage authority (HWC) should be notified and ● Encourage the multifunctional use of existing heritage sites and resources with engaged with to determine appropriate action. different but sensitive new uses. Development and adaptive re-use that caters for ● The layout of the first freehold land grants often correlates with surviving features at the integration of different modes of access and a greater diversity of users should a landscape level. If such a structure is recognised, it should be maintained. be encouraged. ● Any remaining structures or fabric associated with the first freehold land grants ● Encourage intervention to revive heritage features in decline, by engaging with should be protected, and included as part of the heritage inventory. innovative development proposals where appropriate, and considering sensitive ● Alterations and additions to conservation-worthy structures should be sympathetic adaptive reuse strategies for each, specific heritage resource. to their architectural character and period detailing, but should also align with ● Adaptive strategies need to take the surroundings as well as the structures into Burra Charter Article 22 (see introduction of this section). account. D SOCIAL Significance: Appreciation of the agricultural landscape.

Development Criteria: ● It is recommended that physical landscape. permeability to communal resources ● Prevent fragmentation and rezoning such as rivers and mountains is of wilderness or ‘natural’ areas within maintained and enhanced, for the the municipality, to ensure that the enjoyment of all members of the important contribution of wilderness public. This is particularly true when areas to the character of a variety of considering any new development heritage sites is maintained. proposals. (a) Promote public ● Maintain larger unified land areas to footpaths across the cultivated protect larger landscape continuums landscape. (b) Restore areas of that display a unified scenic character. recreation, especially where the public has traditionally enjoyed rights of access. Action might include the removal of fences and walls, where it is appropriate. (c)Prevent privatisation of natural places that form part of the historical public open space resource network. (d) Allow for sustainable, traditional use of natural places for recreational, spiritual and resource- collection purposes.

E ECONOMIC Significance: More than half of the unit presents highly suitable soils for agriculture.

Development Criteria: AGRICULTURE ● Care should be taken that vineyards, and orchards are not needlessly destroyed, and replaced by non- agricultural development. The potential agricultural use of the land should be retained for the future. ● The proliferation of non-agricultural uses, particularly in visually prominent locations, should be avoided. This is in order to protect the predominantly agricultural character of the landscape. ● The subdivision of farms into smaller uneconomic ‘lifestyle’ plots of less than 3 hectares fundamentally erodes the agricultural character of the H13 (5.35) Grade IIIb

TRANSITION AREA

H13 BridgeHouse This landscape unit includes the foot slopes of the Drakenstein Mountains with Drakenstein Peak and Afrikaskop in the distance. The foot slopes of the mountain are covered in areas of critical biodiversity in natural and degraded state. Most of the soils in this unit are only moderately suitable for agriculture. The dramatic mountain backdrop and expansive views from the higher slopes add to the unit’s scenic quality. These footslopes, with predominantly open fallow and pasture land, feature a number degraded land uses that include a race track, paddocks, intrusive private estates, and central pivot irrigation systems. Bridge House private school is situated against the road and at night the illuminated sports field result in light pollution in the surrounding landscape.

This landscape unit has scenic and aesthetic significance with intrusive private land use.

View towards the Wemmershoek Mountains

R45 towards Franschhoek H13 BRIDGE HOUSE A ECOLOGICAL Bridge House private school is situated This landscape unit has scenic and aesthetic significance with intrusive private land Significance: against the road and at night the use. The foot slopes of the mountain are illuminated sports field result in light covered in areas of critical biodiversity in pollution in the surrounding landscape. MAIN AIM: INTERVENE (CHANGE) in a deliberate, planned way to improve a land natural and degraded state. parcel. This approach may be appropriate where the landscape or townscape has Development Criteria: declined beyond the point where enhancement is possible. Actions include: (a) To Development Criteria: ● The high mountains in the study rehabilitate the site to its previous, or natural character, or (b) to accelerate change ● Support protected areas and existing area are landforms vital to its overall towards a new or strengthened character and resilient landscape. The resilient nature reserves, with their landforms landscape character. They enclose heritage landscapes in Stellenbosch, in which development and intervention are most and areas of critical biodiversity, the valleys and settlements of heritage desirable, are those landscapes or units that historically (and almost sporadically) which strongly contribute to the significance. Prevent development underwent change, but continued to form a new typology of equal aesthetic within “wilderness domain” of the winelands on visually sensitive mountain slopes the landscape, strengthening existing spatial patterns. cultural landscape (See the Foothills and ridgelines in order to preserve Conservation System). the continuity of the mountains as a MAIN VALUE: ECOLOGIC - The top of the mountain peaks are part of a protected ● Maintain ecological support areas backdrop. area and while a large part of this landscape unit is in a degraded state, these need to sites of heritage significance ● Names of mountain passes and water to be enhanced and even rehabilitated. This landscape unit’s character could to be (particularly river corridors). Only courses that reference a traditional strengthened by establishing a new integrated typology. permit development that responds to use during the time of the hunter- the heritage sensitivity of the site, and gatherers and herders of the Cape CONSERVATION SYSTEM: A large piece of this landscape unit is a protected area. This that will not dominate, or irreparably should be celebrated. Public access landscape has medium visibility from grade II scenic routes. The Foothill conservation damage the environments adjacent to these sites should be encouraged. system is triggered. to these heritage sites. Optimize the ● Handaxes and cleavers, etc. are scenic and recreational opportunities found throughout the area, and DEVIATED LAND USE/USES THAT WILL LIKELY ERODE LANDSCAPE CHARACTER: Overscaled provided by water courses and larger their heritage significance is clear. All private dwellings, cluttered properties, agricultural related practices (other than water bodies, especially where they archaeological material is protected viticulture and orchards), gated residential estates, large scale industrial structures, were enjoyed through historic right of in terms of the NHRA.Limit cultivation suburban development, nursery/mixed use/garden centre, restaurant/farmstall,, way. and development on upper mining, school complex, forestry related (land in distress/rehabilitation process), ● Respect development setbacks from mountain slopes greater than 1:4 to substation, landfill or sewage plant, parking lot, market, business park, isolated shopping water resources to provide protection protect scenic resources and water centres. from flooding as well as creating catchments, and to minimise visual scenic and ecological corridors (see scarring and erosion. Propose ‘no-go’ DEVELOPMENT CRITERIA legislation in place for river corridors). development areas above the 240m Grade IIIb Please refer to the Conservation Management contour line section of the CMP for general guidelines, B AESTHETIC ● Avoid development or infrastructure Foothill CS explanatory text/terms, and the process Significance: (such as buildings, wind turbines and behind developing the Development Criteria. This landscape unit includes the foot power lines), on crests or ridgelines Green Transition CS The Development Criteria sheets are based slopes of the Drakenstein Mountains because of impact on the visual on Landscape and Townscape typologies with Drakenstein Peak and Afrikaskop sensitivity of skylines. Scenic Route CS found within the Stellenbosch Municipality. in the distance. The dramatic mountain ● Retain view-lines and vistas focused The focus is on the current heritage elements backdrop and expansive views from on prominent natural features and character of the landscapes, and the the higher slopes add to the unit’s such as mountain peaks, as these criteria are discussed under the five value scenic quality. These footslopes, with are important place-making and lines (ecologic, aesthetic, historic, social predominantly open fallow and pasture orientating elements for experiencing and economic). They should also be read land, feature a number degraded land the cultural landscape. They are in conjunction with the Heritage Inventory uses that include a race track, paddocks, not only important for landscape (individual sites) and the Conservation Systems intrusive private estates, and central pivot character, but also for water security, (Appendix 3 of the CMP). irrigation systems. and biodiversity. C HISTORIC Significance: Low

Development Criteria: ● Allow development to move into a new typology to enhance the landscape without losing any high potential agricultural soils. This typology needs to be based on integrated planning principles. ● New development that reinforces segregated planning principles should be discouraged. ● Security estates and gated communities are mono-functional entities which exclude rather than foster integrated planning ideals. In many cases, historic farms, vineyards, orchards, and workers cottages located around the edges of towns have been sanitised and incorporated in such urban sprawl. A typology that should be considered is a self-sufficient, sustainable and socially transformed ‘villages’ with different income levels, incorporating a level of subsidised housing. ● Ensure that new development is responsive to the historical rural context, and avoid suburban type layouts, particularly “gated” estates, in rural areas. ● Ensure that new developments within rural contexts are in sympathy with the topography and unique genus loci of the place/landscape unit. ● Observe the siting of traditional farmsteads and settlements, usually nestled into north-facing hillslopes, near a source of water, in a copse of trees, and overlooking the surrounding landscape. Similar principles should be followed in the placement of new development, as this will inherently strengthen the character of the landscape units as a whole. ● The placement of historic homesteads and settlement typically avoided visually- exposed, wind-swept hillcrests. New development should follow these patterns.

D SOCIAL E ECONOMIC Significance: Significance: Bridge House private school is situated Most of the soils in this unit are only against the road. moderately suitable for agriculture. A small section of high potential soil for Development Criteria: viticulture is located next to landscape ● Facilitate access to opportunities (a) unit F04 (refer to the online map for the Improve quality of life by encouraging soil suitability layer). access to nature, health and recreation routes, and the traditional Development Criteria: use of the landscape (refer to the ● Land-use and infrastructure that Conservation Systems). is not one of the core agricultural ● systems (vineyards and orchards), ● could have a negative visual effect ● in the landscape (greenhouses, black ● plastic ground cover, shade netting, ● chicken batteries). The placement of ● these agricultural elements should be ● carefully considered. H14 (4.8) Grade IIIc

TRANSITION AREA

NCW

H14 Berg River Flood Basin This predominantly degraded land unit in the flood basin under the Berg River dam wall, was part of a job-creation initiative from 1917 that focused efforts around plantations in the Franschhoek area. Most of the soils in this unit are only moderately suitable for agriculture. Matoppie and Afrikakop frame the landscape on the two sides of the dam wall. Matoppie is a landmark feature with its zigzag service roads recognisable from a distance. All the remnant plantations have been removed, but the landscape is still in a degraded state and would have to be rehabilitated further to return most of this critical biodiversity area to its natural condition. The Jim Fouche Picnic Area forms part of this land unit, as an abandoned place with only the large Eucalyptus trees of the picnic terrain remaining, but it retains strong cultural memories in the community and region. Open views are afforded to and from this landscape unit.

This landscape unit has some historic, archaeological and ecological significance, but remains a landscape in distress (large NCW non-conservation worthy area marked in grey) and intervention is needed to restore the quality to its full potential. Any large-scale infrastructure will have a degrading effect.

Berg River Floodplain H14 BERG RIVER FLOOD BASIN A ECOLOGICAL water resources to provide protection This landscape unit has some historic, archaeological and ecological significance, but Significance: from flooding as well as creating remains a landscape in distress (large NCW non-conservation worthy area marked in All the remnant plantations have been scenic and ecological corridors (see grey) and intervention is needed to restore the quality to its full potential. Any large- removed, but the landscape is still in a legislation in place for river corridors). scale infrastructure will have a degrading effect. degraded state and would have to be rehabilitated further to return most of B AESTHETIC MAIN AIM: INTERVENE (CHANGE) in a deliberate, planned way to improve a land this critical biodiversity area to its natural Significance: parcel. This approach may be appropriate where the landscape or townscape has condition. This predominantly degraded land unit in declined beyond the point where enhancement is possible. Actions include: (a) To the flood basin under the Berg River dam rehabilitate the site to its previous, or natural character, or (b) to accelerate change Development Criteria: wall, was part of a job-creation initiative towards a new or strengthened character and resilient landscape. The resilient ● Support protected areas and existing from 1917 that focused efforts around heritage landscapes in Stellenbosch, in which development and intervention are most nature reserves, with their landforms plantations in the Franschhoek area. desirable, are those landscapes or units that historically (and almost sporadically) and areas of critical biodiversity, underwent change, but continued to form a new typology of equal aesthetic within which strongly contribute to the Matoppie is a landmark feature with its the landscape, strengthening existing spatial patterns. “wilderness domain” of the winelands zigzag service roads recognisable from cultural landscape (See the Foothills a distance. Open views are afforded to MAIN VALUE: ECOLOGIC- This landscape unit is in a degraded state and needs to be Conservation System). and from this landscape unit. rehabilitated. ● Maintain ecological support areas to sites of heritage significance Development Criteria: CONSERVATION SYSTEM: The top of the mountain peaks are part of a protected area (particularly river corridors). Only ● Rehabilitation of forestry areas while the rest of the entire area is triggered by a foothill conservation system that permit development that responds to should be applied in the same way advocates an area to act as support to these protected areas, and include the use the heritage sensitivity of the site, and rehabilitation is conducted in mining of it by individuals within the landscape. This landscape has medium visibility within the that will not dominate, or irreparably operations. This includes adaptive Franschhoek valley from grade II scenic drives. damage the environments adjacent reuse strategies for the sawmill to these heritage sites. Optimize the structure. DEVIATED LAND USE/USES THAT WILL LIKELY ERODE LANDSCAPE CHARACTER: scenic and recreational opportunities ● Forestry service roads are difficult to Overscaled private dwellings, cluttered properties, gated residential estates, suburban provided by water courses and larger rehabilitate. Instead these roads are development, mining, substation, landfill or sewage plant, business park, isolated water bodies, especially where they part of the historic layering that tells the shopping centres. were enjoyed through historic right of story of forestry and could be used for way. another purpose such as recreation. DEVELOPMENT CRITERIA ● Protect areas of critical biodiversity, ● Another method of rehabilitation Grade IIIc + NCW Please refer to the Conservation Management and irreplaceable habitats, by not could entail the production of section of the CMP for general guidelines, allowing development in areas of traditional plant resources, where Foothill CS explanatory text/terms, and the process sensitivity as per the EMF (2017). These indigenous knowledge of plants and behind developing the Development Criteria. also include; wetlands, drainage foraging could be applied. Green Transition CS The Development Criteria sheets are based lines, steep slopes, floodplains, areas ● Limit cultivation and development on on Landscape and Townscape typologies with a high water table, areas with upper mountain slopes greater than Scenic Route CS found within the Stellenbosch Municipality. high biodiversity, and areas with 1:4 to protect scenic resources and The focus is on the current heritage elements threatened species water catchments, and to minimise and character of the landscapes, and the ● Fynbos vegetation in the public realm, visual scarring and erosion. Propose criteria are discussed under the five value especially along scenic route corridors, ‘no-go’ development areas above lines (ecologic, aesthetic, historic, social should be preferred to over-scaled under the 180m contour line. and economic). They should also be read entrance structures and landscaping in conjunction with the Heritage Inventory (see Scenic Routes conservation (individual sites) and the Conservation Systems system). (Appendix 3 of the CMP). ● Harvesting of medicinal plants should be encouraged within a controlled environment (see Conservation Systems). ● Respect development setbacks from C HISTORIC D SOCIAL E ECONOMIC Significance: Significance: Significance: Forestry (covered under aesthetic) and the Jim Fouche picnic site (social) are The Jim Fouche Picnic Area forms part of Most of the soils in this unit are only both layers of heritage, as well as archaeological findings mentioned as part of its this land unit, as an abandoned place moderately suitable for agriculture. significance. with only the large Eucalyptus trees of Matoppie and Afrikakop frame the the picnic terrain remaining, but it retains landscape on the two sides of the dam Development Criteria: strong cultural memories in the community wall. ● Names of mountain passes and water courses that reference a traditional use during and region. the time of the hunter-gatherers and herders of the Cape should be celebrated. Development Criteria: Public access to these sites should be encouraged. Development Criteria: ● Where practical, encourage ● Sensitive development that interprets the narrative of historic movement routes. ● Reconsider areas such as the Jim managed access to wilderness Drover routes, where they are still known and used for a similar use or as public open Fouche picnic site in Franschhoek. areas on the higher slopes. This space, have value and should be retained. It was identified as a significant will allow residents and visitors to ● All archaeological material is protected in terms of the NHRA. heritage site by members of the public the winelands opportunities to and offers social and recreational experience the wilderness domain, opportunities for intensive use by large which is a key component within groups (refer to the Social layer on the the cultural landscape as a whole, online platform). and to experience the sense of ● It is recommended that physical interconnectedness of the wilderness, permeability to communal resources agricultural and urban domains such as rivers and mountains is through views from the upper slopes. maintained and enhanced, for the (See the conservation systems enjoyment of all members of the of Green Transitions and Foothills public. This is particularly true when Conservation). considering any new development ● Always use existing roads and proposals. (a) Promote public pathways, such as old forestry service footpaths across the cultivated roads, before any new routes are landscape. (b) Restore areas of established. As much wilderness area recreation, especially where the as possible must be left intact. public has traditionally enjoyed rights ● The principle of ‘tread lightly’ in any of access. Action might include the activity (and associated development removal of fences and walls, where it requirements e.g. toilets for major is appropriate. (c)Prevent privatisation events) in this domain should be of natural places that form part of the emphasised. historical public open space resource ● Make sure the required provision for network. (d) Allow for sustainable, the rehabilitation and maintenance traditional use of natural places for of the slopes used for traditional and recreational, spiritual and resource- recreational purposes is in place. collection purposes. ● Mountain slopes have been used ● for traditional practices for many ● years, and care should be taken that ● any significant cultural sites, such as ● burials and veldkos/medicinal plant ● d resources, are not disturbed.

The Robertsvlei area is located between is located on the valley bottom. The Dassenberg and Middelberg and lies Robertsvlei Road links this pocket with the parallel to Franschhoek. The character of larger Franschhoek area. H FRANSCHHOEK this pocket is in contrast to the townscape of Franschhoek. This area is rural and natural with little development. Remnant Robertsvlei plantations are found on the mountain H15-H16 edges and the Robertsvlei wetland system

H Franschhoek Landscape Unit Rating H15 H16 Item Item Value Weighte Value Weighte Protected areas 10 Critical Biodiversity Ecological area 9 Ecolofical support areas 7 agriculture 4 Urban 1 20% 8 1.6 9 1.8 Viewshed, Scene, Diversity, enclosure, Aesthetic unity, colour, texture, balance, proportion, form 20% 5 1 7 1.4 Age, Pattern representivity and Historic accosiation, rarity, condition 25% 6 1.5 5 1.25 Meaning and cultural accosiations, Social Church, School, Creche, recreational, community 10% 6 0.6 3 0.3 Tourism and agricultural potential High Economical soil suitability 9 medium soil suitability 7 Fragmented 5 Disturbed 2 25% 7 1.75 6 1.5 Degree of acceptable 100% 6.45 6.25

NCW 0- 2 Grade 3c 2 to 4.9 Grade 3b 5 to 7.9 Grade 3a 8 to 10 Grade 2 8.5 to 10 H15 (6.45) Grade IIIb

ROBERTSVLEI

Remnant Plantation on Middelberg

H15 Forestry settlement This land unit is situated between the Dassenberg and Middelberg Mountains, with Significance is found in the historic reference to the plantation industry and social the Robertsvlei Road traversing centrally between them. Areas of critical biodiversity significance for the forestry settlement. It is a valuable ecological unit and any form of in natural condition are found in this land unit and are a valuable asset where they development would have a degrading effect. have not yet been disturbed by plantations. Most of the soils are of a moderate to high suitability for agriculture. This secluded valley once served as grazing land and ruins of longhouses were excavated before the dam was constructed. Robertsvlei Road (dirt road) is characterised by the fact that it offers clear views unobstructed by any structures. It runs parallel to the main road (R45) and provides an alternative route round Franschhoek. Open land with remnant plantations is found on the eastern slopes of Dassenberg and the scars created by the plantation service roads are visible on both the eastern and western aspects. The remains of Driefontein village, an early 20th century forestry settlement, are remarkably well preserved and there is a burial ground. Timber is the main building material used in the construction of these modest structures.

Remnant Plantation H15 FORESTRY SETTLEMENT A ECOLOGICAL and the scars created by the plantation Significance is found in the historic reference to the plantation industry and social Significance: service roads are visible on both the significance for the forestry settlement. It is a valuable ecological unit and any form of Areas of critical biodiversity in natural eastern and western aspects. development would have a degrading effect. condition are found in this land unit and are a valuable asset where they have not Development Criteria: MAIN AIM: INTERVENE (CHANGE) in a deliberate, planned way to improve a land yet been disturbed by plantations. ROAD UPGRADES parcel. This approach may be appropriate where the landscape or townscape has ● Infrastructure improvement including declined beyond the point where enhancement is possible. Actions include: (a) To Development Criteria: new roads, and upgrades to road infrastructure need to be appropriate rehabilitate the site to its previous, or natural character, or (b) to accelerate change ● Support protected areas and existing nature reserves, with their landforms to their rural context (scale, material towards a new or strengthened character and resilient landscape. The resilient etc.). Out of scale flyovers and bridges heritage landscapes in Stellenbosch, in which development and intervention are most and areas of critical biodiversity, which strongly contribute to the should be avoided, as it detracts from desirable, are those landscapes or units that historically (and almost sporadically) “wilderness domain” of the winelands the rural character of the Winelands. underwent change, but continued to form a new typology of equal aesthetic within Remnant Plantation on Middelberg cultural landscape (See the Foothills Road upgrades can include a the landscape, strengthening existing spatial patterns. Conservation System). consideration for a new simple asphalt ● Maintain ecological support areas road (avoiding over-engineered MAIN VALUE: ECOLOGIC - This landscape unit is in a degraded state and needs to to sites of heritage significance edges, including a cycle/walkway), be rehabilitated. It is important to uphold the open character of this valley in close (particularly river corridors). Only to serve as a detour for trucks, whose proximity to the historic town of Franschhoek. permit development that responds to diversion from the historic town core the heritage sensitivity of the site, and will decrease impact on historic fabric. CONSERVATION SYSTEM: Foreground criteria apply around the Grade IIIa Scenic route, that will not dominate, or irreparably and has medium visibility in the area. The Foothill conservation system is triggered, this damage the environments adjacent VIEWS system. to these heritage sites. Optimize the ● The high mountains in the study scenic and recreational opportunities area are landforms vital to its overall DEVIATED LAND USE/USES THAT WILL LIKELY ERODE LANDSCAPE CHARACTER: No-go provided by water courses and larger landscape character. They enclose development zone outside the approved urban edge, apart from road upgrades. water bodies, especially where they the valleys and settlements of heritage were enjoyed through historic right of significance. Prevent development way. on visually sensitive mountain slopes ● Respect development setbacks from and ridgelines in order to preserve DEVELOPMENT CRITERIA water resources to provide protection the continuity of the mountains as a Grade IIIb Please refer to the Conservation Management from flooding as well as creating backdrop. section of the CMP for general guidelines, scenic and ecological corridors (see ● Within the urban edge, limit cultivation Foothill CS explanatory text/terms, and the process legislation in place for river corridors). and development on upper behind developing the Development Criteria. mountain slopes greater than 1:4 to Green Transition CS The Development Criteria sheets are based B AESTHETIC protect scenic resources and water on Landscape and Townscape typologies Significance: catchments, and to minimise visual Scenic Route CS found within the Stellenbosch Municipality. This land unit is situated between the scarring and erosion. Propose ‘no- The focus is on the current heritage elements Dassenberg and Middelberg Mountains, go’ development areas above the and character of the landscapes, and the with the Robertsvlei Road traversing 260m contour line on the edge of criteria are discussed under the five value centrally between them. Middelberg, and the 220m contour lines (ecologic, aesthetic, historic, social line on the edge of Dassenberg or and economic). They should also be read Robertsvlei Road (dirt road) is within the urban edge, whichever in conjunction with the Heritage Inventory characterised by the fact that it offers comes first. (individual sites) and the Conservation Systems clear views unobstructed by any ● Avoid development or infrastructure (Appendix 3 of the CMP). structures. It runs parallel to the main road (such as buildings, wind turbines and (R45) and provides an alternative route power lines), on crests or ridgelines round Franschhoek. because of impact on the visual sensitivity of skylines. Open land with remnant plantations is ● Retain view-lines and vistas focused found on the eastern slopes of Dassenberg on prominent natural features such as mountain peaks, as these are important place-making and orientating elements for experiencing the cultural landscape. They are not only important for landscape character, but also for water security, and biodiversity. C HISTORIC Significance: The remains of Driefontein village, an early 20th century forestry settlement, are remarkably well preserved and there is a burial ground. Timber is the main building material used in the construction of these modest structures.

This secluded valley once served as grazing land and ruins of longhouses were excavated before the dam was constructed. An interpretive museum is planned.

Development Criteria: PLANTATION ● Village settlement associated with forestry is often made up of a grid patterned D SOCIAL street network, in close proximity to the sawmill. A key feature in these settlements Significance: is the use of timber as a construction material. Where these settlements have Social entry S28 (refer to online map): emphasised. heritage significance and historic character, new development that differs in mass Historic donkey kraal used for forestry ● Make sure the required provision for and grain should be discouraged. work. Peaks and footpaths around La the rehabilitation and maintenance ● Rehabilitation of forestry areas should be applied in the same way rehabilitation Motte Forest station used for recreation of the slopes used for traditional and is conducted in mining operations - from the onset. This includes adaptive reuse and collecting medicinal plants. recreational purposes is in place. strategies for the sawmill structure. ● Mountain slopes have been used ● Forestry service roads are difficult to rehabilitate. Instead these roads are part of Development Criteria: for traditional practices for many the historic layering that tells the story of forestry and could be used for another ● Where practical, encourage years, and care should be taken that purpose such as recreation. managed access to wilderness any significant cultural sites, such as ● Another method of rehabilitation could entail the production of traditional plant areas on the higher slopes. This burials and veldkos/medicinal plant resources, where indigenous knowledge of plants and foraging could be applied. will allow residents and visitors to resources, are not disturbed. the winelands opportunities to ● Harvesting of medicinal plants should SETTLEMENT PATTERN experience the wilderness domain, be encouraged within a controlled ● Encourage integrated planning for extensions and densification, allowing new which is a key component within environment (see Foothill Conservation typologies that reinterpret historic settlement patterns. Inappropriate suburban and the cultural landscape as a whole, Systems). affordable housing, that does not follow the massing and integrity of the settlement and to experience the sense of pattern as a whole, should be discouraged. interconnectedness of the wilderness, E ECONOMIC ● Prevent over-engineered and insensitive infrastructural upgrades within historical agricultural and urban domains Significance: settlements. through views from the upper slopes. Most of the soils are of a moderate to high ● Proposed development should recognise the relationship of communities to their (See the conservation systems suitability for agriculture. land and communal facilities. Any development proposal should show a clear of Green Transitions and Foothills understanding of the ‘intangible’ features and values of these sites. Conservation). Development Criteria: ● Prevent gentrification from threatening the distinctiveness of the unique settlements ● Always use existing roads and ● Perhaps some of the land around the within the Stellenbosch winelands. pathways, such as old forestry service river could be utilised for communal roads, before any new routes are grazing, as per its historic function, as PRE-COLONIAL established. As much wilderness area support to the La Motte forest station. ● Handaxes and cleavers, etc. are found throughout the area, and their heritage as possible must be left intact. ● significance is clear. All archaeological material is protected in terms of the NHRA. ● The principle of ‘tread lightly’ in any ● ● Names of mountain passes and water courses that reference a traditional use during activity (and associated development ● the time of the hunter-gatherers and herders of the Cape should be celebrated. requirements e.g. toilets for major ● Public access to these sites should be encouraged. events) in this domain should be ● d H16 (6.25) Grade IIIb

ROBERTSVLEI

H16 Roberts Valley Farm This land unit reads with unit H15, but is different due to a slight deviation in land use and unit views are found towards the Berg River Dam. This land unit displays ecological the presence of three farm complexes. Remnant plantations are located on the slopes of significance together with historic significance relating to the plantation remnants and the Middelberg Mountains with a few evenly divided vineyard blocks on the plains below the Roberts Valley Farm complex. Prestigious estates are a major intrusion within this land them. These are situated between the Dassenberg and Middelberg mountains and unit and have a degrading effect on the landscape. Large-scale infrastructure and ad Skerp Heuwel. The vineyards correspond with the soils of high suitability for agriculture, hoc architectural ‘themes’ are contrary to the character of the Cape Winelands. with the remaining soils in the valley of a moderate suitability. A few irrigation dams are located within this area. The Robertsvlei Road allows access to the town of Franschhoek and the R45. This is also the point of access to the Berg River Dam. Some homes are visible on the foothills of Dassenberg as well as Middelberg Mountains, presumably part of the Robertsvlei settlement. Natural wetlands are found along the Robertsvlei. The entire Roberstvlei area (H16 and H17) is part of a critical biodiversity area. The original Roberts Valley farm is now represented by a modest early 20th century Victorian complex of farm buildings with architectural and landscape significance. On the edge of this land

Robertsvlei Road Berg River Dam H16 ROBERTS VALLEY FARM A ECOLOGICAL The Robertsvlei Road allows access to MAIN AIM: INTERVENE (CHANGE) in a deliberate, planned way to improve a land Significance: the town of Franschhoek and the R45. parcel. This approach may be appropriate where the landscape or townscape has Natural wetlands are found along This is also the point of access to the declined beyond the point where enhancement is possible. Actions include: (a) To the Robertsvlei. The entire Roberstvlei Berg River Dam. Some homes are visible rehabilitate the site to its previous, or natural character, or (b) to accelerate change area (H16 and H17) is part of a critical on the foothills of Dassenberg as well as towards a new or strengthened character and resilient landscape. The resilient biodiversity area. Middelberg Mountains, presumably part heritage landscapes in Stellenbosch, in which development and intervention are most of the Robertsvlei settlement. desirable, are those landscapes or units that historically (and almost sporadically) This land unit displays ecological significance together with historic On the edge of this land unit views are underwent change, but continued to form a new typology of equal aesthetic within significance relating to the plantation found towards the Berg River Dam. the landscape, strengthening existing spatial patterns. remnants and the Roberts Valley Farm Prestigious estates are a major intrusion complex. within this land unit and have a degrading MAIN VALUE: ECOLOGIC - This landscape unit is in a degraded state and needs to effect on the landscape. be rehabilitated. It is important to uphold the open character of this valley near the Development Criteria: historic town of Franschhoek. ● Support protected areas and existing Large-scale infrastructure and ad hoc nature reserves, with their landforms architectural ‘themes’ are contrary to the CONSERVATION SYSTEM: Foreground criteria apply around the Grade IIIa Scenic route, and areas of critical biodiversity, character of the Cape Winelands. and has medium visibility in the area. The Foothill conservation system is triggered in which strongly contribute to the this landscape unit. “wilderness domain” of the winelands Development Criteria: cultural landscape (See the Foothills ROAD UPGRADES THIS IS A LIMITED DEVELOPMENT ZONE, AND THE FOLLOWING DEVIATED LAND USE/USES Conservation System). ● Infrastructure improvement including WILL LIKELY ERODE THE LANDSCAPE CHARACTER: Overscaled private dwellings, cluttered ● Maintain ecological support areas new roads, and upgrades to road properties, agricultural related practices (other than viticulture and orchards), gated to sites of heritage significance infrastructure need to be appropriate residential estates, large scale industrial structures, suburban development, nursery/ (particularly river corridors). Only to their rural context (scale, material mixed use/garden centre, restaurant/farmstall, mining, school complex, substation, permit development that responds to etc.). Out of scale flyovers and bridges landfill or sewage plant, parking lot (without mitigation), market, business park, isolated the heritage sensitivity of the site, and should be avoided, as it detracts from shopping centre. that will not dominate, or irreparably the rural character of the Winelands. damage the environments adjacent Road upgrades can include a to these heritage sites. Optimize the consideration for a new simple asphalt scenic and recreational opportunities road (avoiding over-engineered DEVELOPMENT CRITERIA provided by water courses and larger edges, including a cycle/walkway), Grade IIIb Please refer to the Conservation Management water bodies, especially where they to serve as a detour for trucks, whose section of the CMP for general guidelines, were enjoyed through historic right of diversion from the historic town core Foothill CS explanatory text/terms, and the process way. will decrease impact on historic fabric. behind developing the Development Criteria. ● Respect development setbacks from Green Transition CS The Development Criteria sheets are based water resources to provide protection VIEWS on Landscape and Townscape typologies from flooding as well as creating ● The high mountains in the study Scenic Route CS found within the Stellenbosch Municipality. scenic and ecological corridors (see area are landforms vital to its overall The focus is on the current heritage elements legislation in place for river corridors). landscape character. They enclose and character of the landscapes, and the the valleys and settlements of heritage criteria are discussed under the five value B AESTHETIC significance. Prevent development lines (ecologic, aesthetic, historic, social Significance: on visually sensitive mountain slopes and economic). They should also be read This land unit reads with unit H15, but and ridgelines in order to preserve in conjunction with the Heritage Inventory is different due to a slight deviation in the continuity of the mountains as a (individual sites) and the Conservation Systems land use and the presence of three farm backdrop. (Appendix 3 of the CMP). complexes. ● Within the urban edge, limit cultivation and development on upper such as mountain peaks, as these mountain slopes greater than 1:4 to are important place-making and protect scenic resources and water orientating elements for experiencing catchments, and to minimise visual the cultural landscape. They are scarring and erosion. Propose ‘no- not only important for landscape go’ development areas above the character, but also for water security, 260m contour line on the edge of and biodiversity. Middelberg, and the 280m contour ● It is recommended that visual line on the edge of Dassenberg, north permeability should be maintained of the Robertsvlei Road. towards mountains, valleys and ● Avoid development or infrastructure across open, and cultivated fields. (such as buildings, wind turbines and (a) Discourage the use of solid walls power lines), on crests or ridgelines around vineyards and agricultural because of impact on the visual areas in public view and along scenic sensitivity of skylines. routes. (b) Views should be framed ● Retain view-lines and vistas focused and enhanced by development on prominent natural features wherever possible.v

C HISTORIC Significance: Remnant plantations are located on the slopes of the Middelberg Mountains with a few evenly divided vineyard blocks on the plains below them. These are situated between the Dassenberg and Middelberg mountains and Skerp Heuwel.

The original Roberts Valley farm is now represented by a modest early 20th century Victorian complex of farm buildings with architectural and landscape significance.

Development Criteria: PLANTATION ● Rehabilitation of forestry areas should be applied in the same way rehabilitation is against which it is sited, as well as its spatial structure. Any development that conducted in mining operations - from the onset. impacts the inherent character of the werf component should be discouraged. ● Forestry service roads are difficult to rehabilitate. Instead these roads are part of ● Interventions on the werf must respect the layout, scale, massing, hierarchy, the historic layering that tells the story of forestry and could be used for another alignments, access, landscaping and setting. purpose such as recreation. ● Historical layering must be respected and protected. Alterations and additions ● Another method of rehabilitation for plantation areas, could entail the production to conservation-worthy structures should be sympathetic to their architectural of traditional plant resources, where indigenous knowledge of plants and foraging character and period detailing. Inappropriate ‘modernisation’ of conservation- could be applied. worthy structures and traditional werfs should be prevented. Inappropriate maintenance can compromise historic structures. Heritage expertise is required FARM WERF where appropriate. ● Cultural sites associated with 20th century settlement and farming practices should ● Distinguish old from new but ensure visual harmony between historical fabric and be protected, particularly church and farm school sites that occur at the intersection new interventions in terms of appropriate scale, massing, form and architectural of farm roads. The displacement of farm employees to nearby townships results in treatment, without directly copying these details. the loss of integrity of their former dwellings. ● Encourage development that prolongs the longevity of historic family farms as an ● Respect traditional werf settlement patterns by considering the entire werf as the increasingly rare typology. component of significance. This includes the backdrop of the natural landscape ● d D SOCIAL Significance: roads, before any new routes are Secluded area in close proximity to the established. As much wilderness area town of Franschhoek to be used and as possible must be left intact. appreciated by its residents. ● The principle of ‘tread lightly’ in any activity (and associated development Development Criteria: requirements e.g. toilets for major ● It is recommended that physical events) in this domain should be permeability to communal resources emphasised. such as rivers and mountains is ● Make sure the required provision for maintained and enhanced, for the the rehabilitation and maintenance enjoyment of all members of the of the slopes used for traditional and public. This is particularly true when recreational purposes is in place. considering any new development ● Mountain slopes have been used proposals. (a) Promote public for traditional practices for many footpaths across the cultivated years, and care should be taken that landscape. (b) Restore areas of any significant cultural sites, such as recreation, especially where the burials and veldkos/medicinal plant public has traditionally enjoyed rights resources, are not disturbed. of access. Action might include the removal of fences and walls, where it E ECONOMIC is appropriate. (c)Prevent privatisation Significance: of natural places that form part of the The vineyards correspond with the soils historical public open space resource of high suitability for agriculture, with the network. (d) Allow for sustainable, remaining soils in the valley of a moderate traditional use of natural places for suitability. A few irrigation dams are recreational, spiritual and resource- located within this area. collection purposes. ● Where practical, encourage Development Criteria: managed access to wilderness ● Care should be taken that vineyards areas on the higher slopes. This are not needlessly destroyed, will allow residents and visitors to and replaced by non-agricultural the winelands opportunities to development. The potential experience the wilderness domain, agricultural use of the land should be which is a key component within retained for the future. the cultural landscape as a whole, ● Fruit orchards are associated and to experience the sense of with windbreak trees (see T10.3 interconnectedness of the wilderness, for windbreak species) which agricultural and urban domains form distinctive strong lines on the through views from the upper slopes. landscape. In cases where the (See the conservation systems orchard has lost its function, to retain of Green Transitions and Foothills its heritage values the windbreak trees Conservation). should be kept and new development ● Always use existing roads and could be included within existing pathways, such as old forestry service blocks.