Elizabeth Park in Bellville is back with a bang, local organisations say.
And now you can even “own” a plot in the park.
Various role-players have banded together to bring out the best of what was once seen as a dirty, unsafe place.
The Greater Tygerberg Partnership (GTP), Voortrekker Road Corridor Improvement District (VRCID), Bellville Library and other local organisations are now re-introducing what they say is the area’s hidden gem.
“It’s a place where families can enjoy quality time with loved ones over an idyllic picnic, participate in invigorating exercise classes during the summer, host large gatherings or use the picturesque setting to capture precious wedding memories,” the GTP said in a statement. “Enhanced security measures, including excellent lighting and surveillance cameras, ensure a safe and secure environment for all park enthusiasts.”
Upgrades
When the numbers of park visitors dwindled and care started to deteriorate a few years ago, the GTP reached out to local organisations and set up a Friends of Elizabeth Park group.
Those involved quickly took ownership.
Noorudeen Roman, project manager at GTP and chair of Friends of Elizabeth Park, said the two entities just want residents to take pride in the park. “To achieve this, we need to restore the park’s cleanliness through regular clean-ups and the hosting of engaging events. We particularly encourage students from nearby universities to embrace this opportunity and get involved.”
He said the goal is to uplift the youth and “infuse vibrancy and hope into Elizabeth Park, which is a beautiful urban space”.
Fundraiser
In a bid to keep the park in a good state as well as take it to the next level, the GTP and other organisations have initiated a fundraiser, which will give individuals a chance to purchase a plot of land within the park.
Numerous 3×3-metre virtual plots in the park have been identified across the park and are being sold off at R1 000 each.
Once a plot has been sold and allocated, a commemorative plaque will be designed and manufactured as a token of thanks to the sponsor and placed on a fundraising wall.
For more information or to contribute to the fundraiser, email: info@gtp.org.za
