GQEBERHA – Site preparations have begun for the Mandela Bay Development Agency‘s (MBDA) R15-million Baakens Zipline project, which aims to link Fort Frederick with the Lower Baakens Valley and boost tourism in the heart of Gqeberha.
The first phase of work includes replacing the perimeter fencing at Fort Frederick to improve security and accessibility, prevent illegal dumping and protect the historic precinct.
Cleaning, clearing and other security-related activities are also under way as the MBDA prepares the area for future development.
The new fencing at Fort Frederick is similar to that installed along St George’s Park in Park Drive.
The design and colour were coordinated with the City’s Parks Department to ensure consistency with fencing elsewhere in the city, using the St George’s Park fencing as a reference.
Gates have been incorporated along that the vehicular access route to ensure the Fire Department can continue accessing the valley in an emergency.
Part of broader Baakens Valley vision
Ongoing maintenance will be coordinated with the City, with particular attention given to keeping the gates and access routes available for emergency use.
The zipline project forms part of the broader Baakens Valley development vision, which seeks to unlock the tourism, leisure, environmental and heritage potential of the precinct while encouraging visitors to spend more time in the city centre.
The MBDA’s Baakens Masterplan, commissioned in 2014, identified opportunities to revitalise the Lower Baakens Valley through the development of public spaces, tourism facilities and supporting infrastructure.
A feasibility study and business plan for the zipline were subsequently undertaken in 2019, with the route selected to link two key locations: Fort Frederick and the Lower Baakens Valley.
The proposed attraction is intended to offer locals and visitors an accessible adventure experience combining panoramic views, the natural beauty of the valley and the rich history of the surrounding area. Beyond the zipline itself, the development vision includes supporting infrastructure such as walkways, parking, amenities, utilities and service areas.
Plans also provide for facilities to support operations and enhance the visitor experience, including opportunities to showcase the historical significance of Fort Frederick and South End, as well as the development of Gqeberha around the Baakens Valley.
Laying the groundwork for tourism
The current site preparations represent an important step towards improving the precinct and laying the groundwork for its future development. Addressing longstanding challenges relating to cleaning, maintenance and security is an integral part of the MBDA’s approach.
Through the project, the MBDA aims to strengthen Nelson Mandela Bay’s tourism offering and give visitors new reasons to explore the inner city.
The Baakens Zipline is one component of a broader effort to protect, improve and revitalise the city’s public and heritage spaces, helping ensure these areas increasingly serve residents, visitors and future generations.
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