THE Mandela Bay Development Agency (MBDA) recently launched the Lower Baakens Valley Zipline heritage investigation public participation process.
Interested members of the public, from anywhere in Nelson Mandela Bay, are invited to contribute their views and aspirations before the project kicks off.
Public comments may be submitted via the zero-rated website portal: www.mbdaengage.co.za.
A comprehensive heritage report is also available on this website. Participation on this platform does not require the user to spend data, an innovation by the MBDA to offer equal access to all.
The innovation is also one of the initiatives accelerated by COVID-19 regulations on gatherings and is seen by the MBDA as an effective, accessible and complementary tool at soliciting public inputs.
MBDA spokesperson, Luvuyo Bangazi, said that the MBDA has a mandate to facilitate the implementation of several projects in the Baakens River precinct.
“In 2014, we commissioned a plan for the redevelopment of the precinct. The rich greens and the built and cultural heritages within the precinct offer the opportunity to develop a tourism and leisure product that can contribute to the tourism offering of the metro,” Bangazi said.
He added that last year, the potential of establishing a zipline within the Baakens Valley precinct was tested through a feasibility study and business plan.
Several potential route layouts were identified, but owing to restraining factors, which included environmental constraints, the final route was selected to be between two functional nodes, Fort Frederick and the Lower Baakens Valley. Both sites and their surrounding areas form part of the broader development.
“As part of the project it is our intention to upgrade and enhance the aesthetic environment, specifically addressing current challenges, such as cleaning, maintenance and security of the precinct,” Bangazi added.
“We envision the zipline as a unique element, catering for young and old, locals and tourists, by creating a combination of adventure and beautiful natural scenery.”
- Public comments may also be submitted by email to: create@mbda.co.za before October 15.
