Atlantis should unite against an extremely harmful waste site on its doorstep, which is now one step closer to a reality. This is the sentiment from local activist and businesswoman, Hillary Swarts.
The controversial proposed Wesco Waste Management Facility near Atlantis received Environmental Authorisation from the Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning (DEA&DP) last month, marking a significant step in the project’s regulatory process. However, the development remains far from implementation. Despite the approval, the project cannot proceed until several additional requirements are met, including securing a Waste Management Licence, a Water Use Licence and the necessary rezoning approvals. The deadline for lodging appeals against the Environmental Authorisation was set for Wednesday, 8 April 2026.
The Melkbosstrand Ratepayers Association (MRA) has already taken formal steps to challenge the decision. Acting on behalf of a broader community, the association says it now carries a mandate from more than 3,800 residents across Melkbosstrand, Duynefontein, Van Riebeeckstrand and Kleine Zout River. They also have support from more than 1,600 individuals in surrounding areas.
The association has instructed its legal team to appeal the authorisation, arguing that there are strong grounds to challenge both the decision itself and the conditions attached to it. Opposition is also intensifying within Atlantis, where residents say the project must be considered in the context of the town’s history and ongoing socio-economic challenges. A community activist in Atlantis, Hillary Swarts, confirmed that a local task team has been established to coordinate resistance to the development. “We need to mobilise ourselves to oppose the decision. We have formed a task team,’ she said. They recently collected signatures at local shopping centres, although efforts to pursue legal action remain constrained by limited resources.
“Atlantis has to fund its own attorney, but our people cannot afford it,” said Swarts, noting that attempts to secure pro bono legal support have so far been unsuccessful. She also emphasised that Atlantis cannot rely on existing legal efforts by the MRA. “We cannot piggyback on their process,” she said. Residents have raised concerns that the facility could exacerbate existing pressures in the area, citing potential risks to public health, increased traffic and possible impacts on the Atlantis Aquifer.
Susan Potgieter, chair of a sub-committee of the MRA, said the proposed site is unsuitable for a facility that may process hazardous waste. “We believe this is not an appropriate location for a waste management facility of this nature. Alternative sites were identified, and the reasons given for selecting this site are unacceptable to us.” Potgieter added that the association is concerned about the potential ecological and environmental impact on surrounding communities, and believes the conditions attached to the approval are insufficient and meet only minimum legal requirements. The association has indicated that it will continue to engage at each step of the broader regulatory process, including upcoming applications for additional licences, and will respond based on the merits of each phase.The development has also sparked debate about its compatibility with Atlantis’ designation as a Special Economic Zone (SEZ), which promotes renewable energy and sustainable industry. Many people argue that a large-scale waste facility could undermine the area’s positioning as a green economy hub, potentially affecting investor confidence and future economic growth.
***Those seeking more information can visit www.melkbostogether.co.za
