Woodmill Lane opened in December 1990 on the historical site Knysna's 1919 Sawmill and Timber Factory. It was the first major retail complex to stimulate growth in the town and set the tone for future environmantally friendly development in the Garden Route's fast growing tourist industry. Fondly known as the "Warm Heart of Knysna", it has become the focal point of Knysna's business district.