Cape Town - SANParks has published its draft Tokai Cecilia Implementation Plan (TCIP) for public comment in terms of the Tokai Cecilia Management Framework (TCMF) Review Process.
The plan intends to address concerns that have been raised by a wide range of stakeholders over the past few years.
Parks managing executive Property Mokoena said: “Publication of the draft TCIP marks the culmination of hundreds of hours of work by our stakeholders and staff. This is reflected in the high quality, large number, breadth and insightfulness of the recommendations we received.”
Some plans include the development of the Tokai Manor precinct as a visitor and tourism gateway, the opening of an Arboretum parking area and Lister’s Place, ongoing upgrades to trails and recreational facilities, and a range of actions to improve fire management, safety and security and stakeholder communication.
SANParks added that the TCIP also included large-scale alien removal, fynbos restoration and wetland rehabilitation. An extension of the MTO forestry plantation lease would be investigated, and trees planted to provide shade in suitable areas for the future.
The TCIP also incorporated environmental education and interpretation plans to celebrate the diverse histories and cultural heritage of the area as well as the invaluable role that volunteers and partnerships played.
Friends of Tokai Park took to Facebook to share their insights after they attended the online information session on Tuesday hosted by SANParks which highlighted the background and objective of the draft TCIP.
Secretary Alanna Rebelo said: “We heard that there were over 300 proposals made by the public, and that SANParks were able to accept about 30% without any edits (verbatim) and about 60% with only minor edits.
“Only a few proposals were not able to be accepted.”
Those interested and affected may read through the draft and provide input by May 20 via email to TCMF@ sanparks.org.
kristin.engel@inl.co.za