The Northern Territory’s Litchfield National Park looks set to be the next iconic destination to be given a private enterprise ‘makeover’ … with ziplining, abseiling and luxury camping options all on the table.
The park’s management plan, which was tabled in Parliament last week, outlines some bold initiatives to ‘breathe new life’ into the location, which is currently most famous for its stunning natural beauty.
The NT News reports that Litchfield’s current tourism offerings are largely based around its spectacular waterways … but that could all be about to change.
“Developing new activities can alleviate pressure on the primary sites, while providing visitors with exciting and unique experiences,” the management plan reads.
According to the report, visitors now expect adventure activities such as ziplining, abseiling and rope courses, and Litchfield provides “the perfect setting” for those activities.
Other ideas include a proposal to install a swing bridge or glass walkway at Tolmer Falls out from the existing viewing platform.
The NT News reports that luxury glamping-style accommodation for the more affluent traveller is also being considered. The plan identifies Litchfield as an ideal location for this form of accommodation, which would be operated by commercial operators.
“The aim is to attract investors seeking to develop unique niche tourist accommodation, which meets high environmental standards and delivers an immersive and memorable experience for guests,” the report reads. “This type of accommodation will attract national and international attention and become a drawcard for the Territory more broadly.”
Under the plan, one business would be allowed to offer commercial luxury accommodation in the park, giving its guests “exclusive access” to the sites. To make it easier for investors, the Territory Government is investigating suitable locations and ‘pre-preparing sites’.
The report argues that this sort of initiative will deliver an economic injection to the area, create additional jobs and stimulate the development of complementary tourism products and experiences.
* Would these sorts of activities make you more – or less – likely to visit Litchfield in the future? Comment below.
I would not go to a olace that has veen ruined by man. Leave the National Park as it is . Far more interesting as Nature made it not with man made hideous features. Hands of National parks.
Leave it alone it’s a national park…..I definitely would not visit if these changes take place
Litchfield is a beautiful, natural spot. Leave the place alone!
It is a lovely place to visit, I am not sure, if it’s good or bad, for development.