The Cederberg Conservancy, which represents 20 landowners managing 170,000 hectares, has been criticised for taking a neutral stance on unlawful construction. These past two months, matters have come to a head, with debate raging over what is an appropriate tourism development in the Cederberg wilderness area, and the obligations of, and cooperation between, landowners and conservationists. The issue escalated because Trekkloof is a paid-up member of the Cederberg Conservancy, which has decided to remain neutral. Bad precedentsThe objectors are irked that Trekkloof’s membership of both the Cederberg Conservancy and the smaller Rooi Cederberg Karoo Park is cited in the province’s explanation for reducing the fine. The applicant is an active member of the Cederberg Conservancy and follows their guidelines for tourism and environmental care and management, as well as the fact that Trekkloof is also a member of the Red Cederberg Karroo Park.