In response to a spate of complaints in recent weeks, Pilanesberg National Park’s Bakgatla and Manyane resorts are set to undergo an extensive refurbishment programme.

Tripadvisor and a number of other forums had seen visitors complaining about a number of facilities at both resorts, with a common consensus that the chalets in particular were “overpriced and run-down”, as one commenter put it.

It bears mentioning, however, that feedback on the staff and service at both resorts has remained largely positive, so it seems the issues are primarily structural ones.

The new refurbishment project begins on the 9th of August 2014 and is due for completion some time in November 2014.

The project will see the camping and caravan areas at both resorts rehabilitated, which includes grassing, general gardening and demarcation of sites. Renovations will also be made to all ablution blocks and all electrical points will be upgraded.

All the chalets at both resorts will also recceive thorough upgrades, with additional attention being paid to the accompanying braai and garden areas.

In addition, as part of an ongoing security upgrade, mast lighting and surveillance cameras will be installed along the perimeter fence.

Golden Leopard Resorts first submitted requests for this much needed refurbishment programme to the Department of Tourism and  National Treasury back in  March 2013.

Funds for the project were made available at the beginning of this year, and since this time Golden Leopard Resorts, who manage Manyane and Bakgatla,   have been in consultations with Project Managers ensuring that all compliance issues are addressed and adherence  to all the complexities of  the tendering processes and awarding of the tenders was done fairly and are beyond reproach. They have certainly not been resting on their laurels.

Thankfully, this lengthy process has paid off and Manyane and Bakgatla should be back to their best soon, ready to help ensure that any Pilanesberg trip is a great one all round.