SANParks is paying close attention to what visitors say they want, while making sure that new developments stay in line with the triedand- trusted values of the National Parks.
This does not apply one iota regarding zonation. An absolutely unilateral policy decision applying not just to Kruger.
Anyway, the initial discussion here:
https://africawild-forum.com/viewforum.php?f=191
Zoom in on zoning: The different zones and what they mean
Wilderness / Remote
These areas are essentially undeveloped and without roads. Controlled access: only visitors on foot. Could have footpaths where erosion is a problem.
Primitive
An almost completely natural state to be maintained; development footprints an absolute minimum. Controlled access: 4x4s, horseriding. Small basic overnight facilities.
Quiet
General natural state to be maintained. Only non-motorised access, but access not specifically controlled. Ablution facilities can
be allowed.
Low-Intensity Leisure
Small to medium-sized camps with basic facilities. Infrastructure should be minimised in order to maintain natural state. Motorised self-drive access.
High-Intensity Leisure
High-density tourism development node with concentrated human activities. High-volume roads, high-density camps with modern amenities.
Buffer
Land adjacent to national-/ contractual Parks. Activities with which SANParks is comfortable to be associated with and will promote.
This zoning policy has changed at least once in general, and once again in response to the rejection of the EIA regarding the Malelane Hotel, as per the thread.
The point is, SP hope that all is good now, as the magic zones justify unrestricted development within 2km of Kruger's borders, and also a magic zone outside park borders (3km), where they have the say regarding ANY future development. Unless it changes again using the sweep of a pen.
Try to explain this to private individuals neighbouring a Park?
This Zonation plan has NEVER been approved by the relevant Ministry, and I must stress that!
Hence the impasse regarding the Malelane Hotel at the moment.
If approved, however, it would give absolute Carte Blanche regarding any peripheral hotel development just inside Kruger, or maybe just outside, from Malelane to Nsikaze to Orpen to Phalaborwa to Shangoni to Punda Maria to Pafuri to Giriyondo.
Please check Needs Attention pre-booking: https://africawild-forum.com/viewtopic.php?f=322&t=596