A tourism development proposed for Cleland Wildlife Park is just "pre-election glitter" and would destroy the natural aesthetic of the Adelaide Hills, a former state MP who opposed a cable car plan in the area nearly 30 years ago has said.
The State Government has released concept plans for the wildlife park and is now searching for investors to make it a reality.
The plans were designed by businessman Allan Zeman, who is known for turning Hong Kong's Ocean Park into a bigger success than Hong Kong's Disneyland.
"We're excited by it and we want to see whether others are similarly excited by it," Premier Jay Weatherill said while unveiling the plans on Monday.
Former Democrats MP Ian Gilfillan was a vocal opponent of a proposal for a cable car in the same area in 1989.
That proposal was eventually rejected by State Cabinet under the leadership of then-premier John Bannon.
'Cable cars are a dime a dozen'
Mr Gilfillan said Mr Zeman's ideas — which included a cable car, hotel, zip lines and an Australiana shopping precinct — should be rejected.
"A cable car [in particular] … in the crest of the hills will be nothing other than a constant irritant and an eyesore to anyone who is appreciating the view from Adelaide, looking at that lovely range," he said.
"Cable cars are a dime a dozen all over the world, but unspoiled hill faces as Adelaide's got … are unique."
He said it would create a negative impact on both flora and fauna, including the natural movement of birds and smaller animals.
"It wouldn't have any attraction from anyone who really cares about wildlife," Mr Gilfillan said.
"It seems to me that it's a bit more like pre-election glitter than a serious proposal, and I hope it doesn't get any further," he said.
Mr Weatherill, in revealing the concept plan, said the proposal would be approached in a sensitive and consultative manner.
Australian businessman Lindsay Fox, a friend of Mr Zeman, yesterday said he was considering investing in the proposal but wanted to see more detail.
The state election is scheduled for March next year.
