MOSSEL BAY NEWS - At their monthly meeting on Thursday the municipal council approved a recommendation that the Harry Giddey Park be upgraded to allow for the better utilization of this huge asset.

Council approved the appointment of the Harry Giddey Park Committee that will oversee the development and optimal utilization of the park within the proposed utilization plan. 

The intention is to redevelop the park to be more of a tourism asset. 

Plans include the redevelopment of the existing mini amphitheatre so that more people may be accommodated, and for a retail area to be developed that in future may be used as an open market for retail activities such as morning or evening markets, even a coffee shop or restaurant, and a Mossel Bay produce market. 

It is also proposed that the playpark be redeveloped.

The intention is to lease this area on a long-term lease to a private entity who will, in turn, develop the facilities, and for the park act as an economic catalyst for the town.

Council proposes that the animals currently housed at the park be retained as part of a petting zoo or animal farm that will attract visitors. 

Further negotiations are envisaged with SAPREC to investigate the possibility to develop part of the park into a penguin park.

The proposed committee will report to the directorate of community services on a quarterly basis.

Council resolved that a public participation process will follow, whereafter the matter will serve before council for consideration.

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