GARDEN ROUTE NEWS - Construction of the entrance gate to the Tsitsikamma/Storms River section of the Garden Route National Park (GRNP) is well under way after slight delays since its inception in 2016. Hiccups in the project came after a hired company could not complete the task on time due to unforeseen circumstances.
The renovation of the gate aims to introduce a streamlined structure and system for visitors. 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. Once completed, visitors will enter and exit the park more efficiently.
More lanes to access park
There will be four lanes to enter the park and two to exit, according to SANParks spokesperson Nandi Mgwadlamba.
This week a company was subcontracted to complete roofing. This is expected to take a month to complete and once done, paving and tarring will get under way. Glass doors and windows were also installed recently. At this rate, the park is confident that the project will be completed by spring.
The park put measures in place to ensure easy access for visitors by adding an additional lane to the temporary entrance lane, as well as two to three roving SANParks officials to assist with paperwork from the entrance gate.
Acting area manager Obed Maluwa expressed his gratitude for the continued support received from visitors and tour operators during the construction process.
"Thank you to all our visitors during the financial year 2017/2018. The park received a 12% increase in the number of visitors, a clear indication of the love visitors have for the park. We remain grateful for this."
Serpentine Bridge, Wilderness
Maintenance was to commence on 22 May and is expected to continue for the next four months. Visitors are advised to enter the Ebb & Flow North rest camp from Waterside Road and also via Hoekville Road.
The maintenance operation is aimed at improving the structural component of the bridge. Visitors to the Wilderness section of the GRNP are advised to do the following:
• All guests who have accommodation or camping reservations for the Ebb & Flow South rest camp must use the main entrance gate via the N2.
• Guests who have reservations for the Ebb & Flow North rest camp are requested to utilise Waterside Road via Wilderness town for access.
• Guests should aim to arrive at the park before 17:30.
• SANParks gate officials are available at the entrance gate to the Ebb & Flow North rest camp throughout the day and night in order to ensure sufficient service is provided to arriving guests.
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