Shark nets draw controversy at Club Med's first South African resort

Marine scientists have objected to a proposed plan to install shark nets off the beach near Club Med Tinley Manor, and the KwaDukuza Municipality says it will carry out an environmental impact assessment before making a decision.

Club Med Tinley Manor, the French tourism company’s first resort in South Africa, is opening in the coming months near a public beach north of Durban. Marine scientists have raised objections to a plan reported as being supported by the KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board to install shark nets off that beach. The municipality that has final authority says a formal environmental impact assessment will be conducted before a decision is made. The resort developer and Club Med have said they defer to the authorities and independent experts on the matter. Key facts: - Marine scientists have lodged a complaint about proposed shark nets adjacent to the Club Med Tinley Manor beach. - The KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board has been reported as supporting the use of nets and drumlines as a bather-protection measure. - The KwaDukuza Municipality says it will carry out an environmental impact assessment and has not made a final decision. - Club Med and the project developer have stated they trust a transparent, science-led process by relevant authorities. Summary: The situation centers on differing views about how best to protect bathers while avoiding harm to marine life, with scientists warning that nets can entangle non-target species and officials arguing nets can reduce attacks. The next procedural step reported is an environmental impact assessment by the municipality before any permit or installation decision is taken.