Wilderness Boardwalk in limbo as red tape winds on

GEORGE NEWS - It seems that the restoration of the iconic Wilderness Boardwalk that runs along the banks of the Touw River is delayed by internal bureaucracy.

Following a flood in April 2024, the boardwalk was closed and now lies silent, falling into a state of disrepair.

Although SANParks says the boardwalk is a priority, nothing physical is happening yet, and there's no timeline for the project's completion.

Even though the agency has spoken about it before, the pro-ject is still stuck in the internal 'paperwork' phase - planning, approvals and procurement.

According to the Garden Route National Park's Regional Communications Manager, Phokela Lebea, while an initial update was provided earlier this year, the project has not yet reached the implementation stage.

"There are still important internal and administrative processes to be completed before physical work can commence. All rele-vant assessments have been undertaken, and discussions are ongoing between our technical, environmental and financial departments to ensure the most suitable and sustainable way forward," says Lebea.

The boardwalk is unsafe and inaccessible to the public. Currently, there is no confirmed starting date for the restoration project.

Repair or rehabilitation work

At this stage, no construction or rehabilitation has started, as SANParks must first conclude internal approvals and procurement processes.

Once these are finalised, a clear implementation plan will be shared with the public.

Unfortunately, SANParks has not committed to a date of completion. "Because these internal processes are still under way, it would be premature to commit to a specific start or completion date. However, please be assured that the boardwalk's restoration remains on the Park's active agenda," says Lebea.

In the meantime, according to SANParks, the Working for the Coast (WFTC) project, which restarted in September and runs until March next year, continue to assist with litter clean-up and general maintenance in the area.

"SANParks acknowledges the public's frustration and shares the community's desire to see the Wilderness Boardwalk restored to its former beauty. We remain committed to achieving this in a responsible, environmentally sensitive and lasting way.

"We ask for continued patience and understanding as we complete the necessary groundwork to ensure that, when the boardwalk reopens, it will once again be a safe and enjoyable experience for all," says Lebea.

The once-popular Touw River boardwalk now lies in disrepair, closed to the public due to safety concerns.