News

Upgrading Of N2 Highway Through Plaatbos Nature Reserve (“plaatbos Tunnel”)

The road contract for the upgrading of the N2 highway worth R 316 million, over a 33 month period commenced on 15 January 2007. In terms of the contract agreement, the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry issued a permit for the removal of trees from the road reserve, along the 4km stretch through the Plaatbos Reserve and at the new entrance to the Total Petroport.

SANParks, the delegated authority responsible for the management of the Tsitsikamma Indigenous Forest, was responsible for harvesting all usable timber in the demarcated areas, and 111 usable timber trees were harvested in the past week.

The harvesting phase will be followed by a structured phase of plant & seedling removal for rehabilitation of the road reserve and these will be given to local community nurseries and the public for sales and personal use. Once these phases are complete, road construction will begin in earnest.

The South African National Roads Agency has appointed an Environmental Control Officer John Allen, a retired SANParks official. The good relationship between Mr Allen and the Tsitsikamma Forests personnel will ensure effective implementation of the project.

Issued by: South African National Parks

Enquiries:

Wanda Mkutshulwa

Head: Communications

South African National Parks

Tel: (012) 426-5201

Cell: 082-908-2692