Published on : Saturday, February 14, 2015
Plans for developing the Tasmanian World Heritage Area (WHA) and national park has moved to the next phrase as the details of the proposal have been released.
The plan includes five huts along the South Coast Track in the South-West National Park and a plan for boat trips in the Port Davey and Bathurst Harbour areas.
A three-day mountain bike experience, including accommodation pods in the north-east, an adventure precinct at Narawntapu National Park and a five-day walk on Flinders Island have also been proposed.
The project will be accessed by panel of experts from the 24 projects submitted.
The project would ensure jobs in the regional area and meet the government’s target of bringing 1.5 million visitors to Tasmania by 2020 feels Minister for the Environment Parks and Heritage Matthew Groom.
The government says that there is a growing interest from private investors who are willing to make these places more attractive to tourists. The government has already received 37 expressions of interest (EOIs) from investors who wish to contribute to the development of the park for better tourism.
A number of issues are still being considered by the government on whether boats will be allowed in the WHA, if they are there would be a tighter control. The plan would allow the usage of motor boats. The government is perspective about landing arrangements.
Tour operators are optimistic that the plan would push forward the concept of eco-tourism. Â Responsible practices to develop tourism in this eco-sensitive area will definitely prove worthwhile in this area.
However there has been some opposition from the Aboriginal groups who are not keen on commercial projects on the eco-system that prevails. They were shocked that the details of the proposal were announced without their consultation. Australian Greens Leader Christine Milne too was adamant there should be no commercial developments in the WHA.
According to the World Heritage guidelines a site cannot be damaged more than it was damaged at the time that it was listed. Wilderness is defined in terms of not allowing that commercial exploitation and undermining of the wilderness of the natural value. Christine Milne said that there are areas outside the park where opportunities can be improved and people can enjoy wild places.
Tags: National Parks in Tasmanian (WHA)
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