A new campground is in the works for Huntly as the long anticipated Kimihia Lake development is checking more and more boxes off their project plan
The project, which includes filling the Kimihia open cast mine with fresh water to re-form the lake, has been developing since 2017 when the land was bought by the Allen family.
The Allens had owned the farmland adjacent to the mine site since the 80s. They purchased the mine land with the goal to rehabilitate the area, and return it to the lush landscape it once was.
As years went by, the plan developed more. Lush wetlands and nurseries will be joined by a community recreation and education centre, a camping ground, and perhaps even a new mining museum.
Project manager Charlie Young said that although some of these are a while off, and some are a long while off, neither the Allens nor development company Boffa Miskel wish to hog the space while the work is done.
“Recently we had the half marathon come through and utilise the site which was really great to see,” Young said.
“We want the place to still be used as we work around the recreational areas. We love seeing people come through for walks and adventures.”
Next on the agenda is to open the campground, Young said. This will be one of the first of several public spaces and sites on the lake.
The campground’s utility building has been finished by construction company BuildSmart and installed into its new lakeside location. This includes accessible bathrooms and an outdoor kitchen.
Next is to look to bring in a campground management company, after which Young said he’s sure it won’t be long before the site is open.
Just as exciting is the continuous work being done to rehabilitate and conserve the wildlife surrounding the lake.
“We had started a native plant nursery a few years back, but it was halted by COVID,” Young said.
“We’ve gotten back into it, and we’re also working on a training programme pertaining to growing your own food and plants”.
They would run this programme, along with others, out of a new education
“As the project progresses, the public can expect to see continued incremental development of the site, with further facilities and amenities delivered over time.”
by Sarah Morcom
