KNYSNA NEWS - The construction of the office building at the Tsitsikamma section of the Garden Route National Park (GRNP) has been completed and is now operational, housing client services and reception staff.

The entrance gate will be completed next year. SANParks is in the process of appointing a concession holder to complete the construction work at the gate after a hired company could not complete the task due to unforeseen circumstances.

SANParks followed due process after the termination of the company’s contract by obtaining three quotations. 

Negotiations with a suitable local contractor to complete the task are under way. 

This is the best decision to fast-track the completion of the work at the main gate.

The project began in 2016 as part of a R19-million project to upgrade infrastructure in the Storms River Rest Camp, and includes the development around the Big Tree. 

To date, 80% of the work is complete including a temporary road constructed in 2015 to allow visitors to access the park. 

The R19-million was granted by the expanded public infrastructure programme and Department of Tourism.

The renovation of the gate aims to introduce a streamlined structure and system for visitors entering the main gate.

Noise levels around the site have remained normal and parking space has not been affected by the construction work. 

No heavy machinery is used and all work is on existing footprint.

The park has a temporary restaurant and curio shop and a variety of accommodation on offer. 

Activities for visitors include zip lining, forest excursions with a Segway, hiking trails and water activities.

Measures to ensure traffic flows efficiently from the park’s main gate are also in place. 

They include the introduction of a new lane and additional staff to assist visitors.

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