For the past two years an expert team of ecologists, dune dynamics specialists, engineers and architects have been studying the best way to upgrade a World Heritage site in KwaZulu-Natal without damaging its sensitive ecosystem. Finally, after countless studies and surveys, they have finished their plan and management at the iSimangaliso Wetland Park has been given the go-ahead for a R72-million revamp at its popular Sodwana Bay resort.iSimangaliso CEO Andrew Zaloumis said the redevelopment, which includes a new visitor complex, arts and craft markets, recreational areas, road upgrades and ecological rehabilitation, would start soon and take about two years to complete.It was vital, he said, that the pristine coastal ecosystem and environment was not negatively affected by the revamp."The Sodwana Bay section of the park is an integral and highly valued part of iSimangaliso."This area is renowned not only for world-class coral reefs, more than 1200 species of marine fish and outstanding scuba diving, but also for some of the most rare and endangered forest types, as well as a highly sensitive and dynamic dune system," said Zaloumis.R11-million will be spent on a new entrance gate complex, R50-million on visitor facilities and ecological rehabilitation, and about R10-million on road upgrades...