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A striking view of Bloemfontein, as seen from the green zone. PHOTOS: Supplied
Green spaces transformed LIENTJIE MENTZ Law enforcement officers started to remove illegal squatters on Reservoir Island, on the border of Arboretum and Dan Pienaar close to Albrecht Street, on 2 February. Michael Deutschmann, manager of the Westdene Neighbourhood Association (WNA), contacted the Mangaung Metro Law Enforcement department to remove the squatters on the koppie at the corner of Albrecht and Brill Street. Law enforcement returned on Tuesday to remove the three structures erected here in the veld. Deutschmann says littering and va-
grants remain a big problem at Happy Valley and Reservoir Island. After all the hard work that went into the establishment of the Westdene Park Conservancy between Albrecht and General Hertzog Streets, they are now entering phase two and three of the project. This includes a call that went out to residents of Westdene, Arboretum and Dan Pienaar and others to join and make a contribution to erect fences. The Westdene Park Conservancy opposite Albrecht Street was fenced off in 2025 and was funded by residents and businesses. The area, which is part of the Mangaung Metro’s green zone, is managed through the metro’s Adopt a Park poli-
cy by the Friends of Westdene Park. After cleaning up the park, paths were established along with the fence with controlled access points for use by members of Friends of Westdene Park. Two springbucks and 40 tortoises have since been moved to the park and added to the bird life and other small animals in the area of 10ha. Deutschmann said they have started with fund-raising to also fence off Reservoir Island and Happy Valley. “We have the support of the cycling and trail running community,” he assured BloemNews. Residents of Westdene and Dan Pienaar are already picking the fruit of the hard work that was done in the conservancy.
“Since enclosing the green space with secure access for the community, the Westdene Park Conservancy has been transformed from an unsafe, neglected space often used by vagrants into a valued and well-caredfor green area for the community,” said resident Johann van der Wath. Van der Wath said adding to its unique character, are the occasional sightings of a springbuck and resident tortoises, gentle reminders of the natural life that once, and now again, thrive here. “Residents value the park not only for its open space and trees, but for the way it brings people together, creating a safer, more connected community environment enjoyed daily.”
Illegal occupants being removed from Reservoir Island on 2 February.
R41 800
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