A brand-new fence and designated walkway are hopefully on the cards for the Batavia Street Conservation Area (BSCA) in Bothasig.
The matter was discussed at the last Subcouncil meeting held late last month where Ward 5 councillor, Miquette Temlett, tabled the motion of exigency – a motion of utmost importance and one that concerns the preservation of a hidden biodiversity gem, she said.
“We propose two critical actions: the installation of a protective fence and the establishment of a designated walkway within the BSCA,” said Temlett.
Undeveloped space
Two years ago, residents of Bothasig stumbled upon this previously undeveloped space, she said, and it quickly became evident that this space held significant biodiversity value.
“The community rallied to clear invasive species, and in doing so, uncovered 18 Cape Flats Sand Fynbos flowering species, including critically endangered ones. This area is not just a recreational space; it is a sanctuary for our unique natural heritage.”
Temlett says the residents have demonstrated unwavering commitment by investing over 320 person hours on site over the past year, working closely with specialists from the City of Cape Town’s ecological management unit, environmental management, law enforcement, and solid waste departments. A Friends of Batavia Street Group has also been established to take ownership of this space. The dedication of the community to restore and protect this environment is commendable, she said.
Area should be protected
“However, challenges have arisen due to a lapse in communication during the transition of external contractors, jeopardising the well-defined boundaries of the BSCA. We must act swiftly to address this issue. The installation of a protective fence is a crucial step in securing the area and safeguarding the rare and endangered species within. This fence will deter illegal activities, protect against informal settlements, and create a safe space for the endangered flora as well as the residents.
“Moreover, the lack of a demarcated walkway within the BSCA has led to unintentional trampling of delicate flora species and unauthorized pathways. A designated walkway will mitigate these issues by directing pedestrian movement along approved routes, ensuring the preservation of our unique biodiversity,” Temlett told council.
The Cape Flats Sand Fynbos is critically endangered, with only 1% conserved, and 147 species threatened with extinction, she said adding that this vegetation type is exclusive to Cape Town.
Reserving for future generations
In conclusion she said that the BSCA is a vital natural asset that deserves their utmost attention and protection. “As this area is currently at high risk for invasion and as a result we might lose the critically endangered flora forever, we must act swiftly to install a protective fence and establish a designated walkway to safeguard this unique biodiversity and ensure it remains a recreational and educational asset for our community.”
She proposed that Subcouncil request the directorate of parks and recreation to facilitate the procurement and installation of a suitable perimeter fence encompassing the area, and also appealed for the provision and establishment of a demarcated walkway within the area.
Phindile Maxiti, Subcouncil chair, said that the motion had been submitted, and that it complies with the rules of the council.
Ward 1 councillor, Cheryl Visser, said she fully supports the motion as a lover of fauna and flora.
The motion will be submitted to the relevant departments for investigation, said Roxanne Moses, Subcouncil manager. She said the decision does not lay with Subcouncil, that the landowner will have to be identified, and that there will be costs involved which will determine whether the project gets a go ahead, or not.
