The World of Birds in Hout Bay has fallen on tough times and is selling off a portion of their property to sustain the landmark establishment. A prime piece of land of 4000 sqm, situated off Valley Road, is available for sale for the first time in over 40 years.
It forms part of a critical fund raising initiative to keep this vital landmark and bird sanctuary operations, said James Lewis, MD for Seeff Hout Bay. After forty years, this global attraction with thousands of visitors annually is now faced with severe financial constraints as sponsorships have dwindled and this sale is vital to keep the doors open, he said.
World of Birds performs an important community service as a haven for sick and injured birds and small animals. The organisation never turns anyone away and have assisted in excess of 40 000 animals, said Hendrik Louw from World of Birds.
It is the largest bird park in Africa and one of the few large bird parks in the World. They have over 3 000 birds, and small animals, of 400 different species at present in more than 100 spacious landscaped walk through aviaries, allowing you the most intimate closeness with nature.
It is the only organisation of its kind in the Cape and highly dependent on donations and bequests. With the economic decline, it is unfortunately now facing a financial crisis and is in dire need of funding, explained Louw.
Vacant land is rare in the area and this is an excellent investment opportunity and ideal for someone to build their dream home in a high demand area. Ashley Larter, a Seeff Hout Bay agent said that according to Propstats data, vacant land in Hout Bay has sold for R1.7m to R3m Bay and this plot is expected to fetch around R2.5m.
Hout Bay is one of the most dynamic property markets in the country with rapidly rising property values driven by the ever increasing demand for the lifestyle on offer. Lewis says further that the area is regarded as an excellent investment and offers a quality of life, whether you are a professional, retiree, family or second or holiday home buyers.
It is particularly scenic, surrounded by mountains to the one side and the blue Atlantic Ocean as far as the eye can see. It offers a healthy outdoor lifestyle with many activities, from hiking and cycling to horse riding. It is also self-contained with excellent schools and amenities and has a cosmopolitan lifestyle with top class restaurants, eateries and hangouts.
Hout Bay is desired for its close proximity to the Atlantic Seaboard on the one side and the Southern Suburbs to the other side and offers easy access to the airport and many attractions of the Cape.