New interpretative centre for Cradle of Humankind A new interpretative centre is on the cards for the World Heritage Cradle of Humankind site. Standard Bank has donated 125 hectares to the conservancy. The area overlooks the famous Sterkfontein region and has been earmarked for a major visitors' centre. The land opens up access to the World Heritage Site from the North West Province, Magaliesburg and Krugersdorp. The donated land is situated just off the dolomite that is home to the famous caves where so many early hominid remains have been found and thus provides a safe place where visitors can view the fossil-rich region without damaging it. "The design process for the interpretative centre will start soon," says Project Manager Michael Worsnip. "The design, architecture and operation of the centre must work as one, with the design fully integrated into the building's function." The rest of the donated land will be developed in such a way as to preserve its pristine character, with hiking trails allowing visitors to enjoy it up close. Antelope and wildebeest are being re-introduced into the area. "We hope that private game reserves in the area will take down their fences," says Worsnip. Not all animals help conservation efforts - elephants, for example, will not be brought into the area as their behaviour will cause massive damage of the sensitive site. ©Copyright Prime Origins 2001 CONTACT BRETT HILTON-BARBER primeorigins.co.za is an iafrica.com Private Label site

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