"Beeld"
2012-06-12 23:33
Elise Tempelhoff
More than 3 million people in 181 communities support SANParks' plans for two luxury hotels - one in Malelane and one in Skukuza in the Kruger Park.
So Edna Molewa, Minister of Environmental Affairs, said in a written reply to a parliamentary question from the DA.
In addition to the two hotels, a luxury guest house and six tent camps are planned for the Park, she said.
These enhancements are part of the Park's commercialisation strategy.
The hotels are built for middle-class South Africans of all races who do not always feel like taking their "entire grocery trollley" to the Park to spend a holiday.
These people, South Africans and foreign visitors, do not always feel like making food for themselves.
"Some families prefer a modern way of recreation for their children to be kept happy," Molewa said.
Gerhard Smit, convener of civic organization Aikona, said he and the group's more than 300 members vehemently opposed the commercialization of the Park, and the two planned hotels, and will do everything in their power to stop it.
The group welcomed the establishment of other tent camps because it is what "true nature lovers" want.
"Those who want to be pampered and do not want food prepared, may stay in the luxury housing in the camps and guest houses."
He had heard that it would cost around R1 500 per person per night in the proposed Malelane hotel to go overnight.
Molewa said if everything goes according to plan, construction on this hotel would begin in January next year.
It is 14 months later than the original date in October 2011, after the environmental impact study was completed.
She pointed out that 70% of the people around the park were unemployed and that with the proposed new developments between 600 and 700 jobs will be created.
About the possible negative impact that hotel developments may pose for the Park's ecosystems and biodiversity Molewa said there is no empirical, scientific evidence for it.
"The architecture is of such a nature that it is in harmony with local culture and the natural environment."
I wouldn't take this article too seriously yet!
