Second home development in South Africa

Abstract

This thesis reflects the results of research on second home development in Yzerfontein and Riebeek-Kasteel, South Africa. The research aims to make a contribution to the investigation on second home development in South Africa. It is furthermore looked upon the consequences of second home development for the local community. Yzerfontein is a small village with many second homes. The number of second homes in Riebeek-Kasteel is less, but this town is expected to experience continued growth of second homes in the future. Impacts which are related to the second home phenomenon are both positive and negative. On the one hand it leads to an economic stimulant and to the generation of employment. Especially in Yzerfontein, where second home constitute an important share of the economy, second homes can be regarded as a positive influence for local development. However, there are signs that second home development leads to gentrification in the country side. It is therefore important, especially in Riebeek-Kasteel, that the development of second homes is properly guided and well planned.