THE opening of the new bridge to Thesen Islands in the Knysna Lagoon has been described as an environmental achievement by the developers of the new marina, spread across 19 individually named islands in the lagoon.

The Thesen Islands Development Company was responsible for the new arched bridge, which has replaced a 40 metre section of the causeway to the islands.

This has restored the natural tidal flow of the lagoon in the surrounding area, and has had a very positive impact on the natural environment, improving the water quality and conditions for marine life.

The mayor of Knysna, Charles Thobi, said at the opening function that the stringent design standards and restrictions imposed on the development by both the authorities and the Thesen Islands Development Company "had a rub-off effect on other developments in the region because it set aesthetic standards for architects and planners".

The waterways around the 19 islands have also proved successful environmentally. The gabion rock constructions on the waterway edges are not only very sturdy, but have provided an ideal habitat for a diversity of marine organisms.

They "filter" the seawater, resulting in superior water quality in the waterways and lagoon around Thesen Islands.

The sheltered waterways also provide a refuge for tens of thousands of fish. It is predicted that soon some of Knysna's best fishing will be within the Thesen Islands waterways.

The environmental monitoring team recently discovered the Knysna seahorse has starting living in the waterways.

This has caused major excitement in conservation circles as the 20 hectares of new sheltered water area will provide an important extra habitat for these endangered creatures.

With over nine years in the planning, Thesen Islands is South Africa's most thoroughly researched and planned residential project. Extensive environmental studies were conducted to ensure that the development exists in harmony with the Knysna Estuary. Extensive research by the CSIR and bird, plant and wildlife specialists was also involved.

Thesen Islands is the largest marina development in the country. Eighteen of the 19 islands in the 90ha private estate are residential.

The R800m low-density project has five phases and will, on completion, comprise about 450 homes and some waterfront apartments, all built in the distinct Colonial Maritime architectural style. There will also be a small commercial area known as Thesen Harbour Town.

Eleven hectares of the development has been preserved as parkland and a bird reserve. About 70% of Thesen Islands has been sold.

The developers say sales are ahead of projections and now exceeded the R260m mark. The major shareholder is Power Developments and others include Chris Mulder and Gray Rutherford.

l For more call Thesen Islands Sales Centre tel 044 382 6812 or visit www.thesenislands.co.za