KLIPRIVIERSBERG NATURE RESERVE

The quartzite ridges of Gauteng are regarded as one of the most important natural assets in the northern provinces of South Africa.  They are characterized by a unique plant species composition that is found nowhere else in the country.  The Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve straddles a series of these ridges that lie approximately 10 km south of Johannesburg’s CBD.  It conserves the Bankenveld, a threatened veld type which is rich in flowering plants.  As the largest nature reserve in Johannesburg, its size makes the re-introduction of Highveld species of game viable and also makes it an important attraction for residents and eco-tourists alike.

After initial work done by Graham Young in the early 90’s on the design of the park at the southern end of the reserve, NLA was appointed in May 2005 by Johannesburg City Parks to draft a development framework.  The framework proposed a phased approach that placed emphasis on securing and interpreting the natural and cultural assets of the reserve first and then later, providing the amenities. 

The reserve was designed to fulfil the needs of a broad range of people by contrasting the adventure of wilderness, the excitement of game/bird viewing and the mystique of Tswana ruins with the more familiar city pursuits of picnicking, flea-market shopping, outdoor theatre and enjoying refreshments at a pavement café.

The framework proposed that the area be managed as an integrated unit promoting a synergy between the conservation of its natural and cultural resources and the education and recreation needs of people.  The project extended from 1989 through 2006.