A developer has started constructing an amusement Park inside Hells Gate despite not getting an approval from the National Environment Management Authority.
The park is expected to have a heated swimming pool, restaurant, tethered hang gliders and zip lining lines.
Read:
Kenya Wildlife Service has allowed the construction of a new recreation facility at Hell's Gate National Park.
The planned amusement park has raised eyebrows with conservationists saying it will be disastrous. and that the proposal has been shrouded into secrecy.
The project that is shrouded in secrecy will have two massive towers built between the main wall to Fischer's tower and Buttress. A cable car from Long'onot to Hell's Gate, a multi-tired swimming pool, tethered hang gliders, zip lining are planned on main wall. There are also plans to build a restaurant.
The National Environment Management Authority said on Wednesday they are yet to formally receive the proposal, before conducting an environmental Impact assessment.
Interestingly, the park has no management plan to guide development. It lacks support from the local KWS staff, but has been approved by the head office.
Construction that is going on at Hells Gate. COURTESY
KWS acting director general Julius Kimani told the Star on Tuesday a developer had put a proposal to the KWS Board to have a zip lining, which was approved.
"Initially he wanted Aberdare. The proposal was rejected because Aberdare was too sensitive. The Board agreed he could try at Hells Gate because it is already zoned. There are areas reserved for pure conservation," Kimani said.
Construction that is going on at Hells Gate. COURTESY
He initially wanted to construct the park in Aberdares but it was rejected.
Nema is yet to formally receive the proposal and conduct an environmental Impact assessment.