Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning
Question by:
Hon Andricus van der Westhuizen
Answered by:
Hon Anton Bredell
Question Number:
5
Question Body:
Regarding the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve:
- (a) What are the latest developments regarding vehicular access for visitors to the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve and (b) what options are available for conducting the envisaged public-participation process under COVID-19 regulations;
- whether there are plans to provide additional parking space inside the nature reserve; if so, what are the relevant details;
- whether the construction cost has been established; if so, what are the relevant details?
Answer Body:
- (a) Vehicle access on the MTO-managed circular route for Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, is continuously managed by MTO staff responsible for Gate Operations and Access Control. Volumes of vehicles are closely monitored by MTO, with additional support from CapeNature in terms of frequent patrols on the circular route and demarcated parking bays where CapeNature hiking trails starts.
(b) Whilst restrictions are currently in place in respect of physical stakeholder meetings, increased use of virtual meeting platforms are advocated and utilised.
(2) Investigation is underway to identify potential expansion options for parking along the MTO-managed circular route, including a review of existing parking areas specifically earmarked for CapeNature clients.
(3) CapeNature has not established construction costs as the management of the Jonkershoek circular route is a direct responsibility of MTO Forestry Operations. CapeNature has no information on MTO’s construction costs and/or annual maintenance budget requirements.
Date:
Friday, February 5, 2021
