Better Edenvale launches to revitalise town and CBD

To improve, uplift and restore the town, Better Edenvale has officially been launched.

With funding from community members, businesses, property owners and residents, this volunteer-led, apolitical, registered N PO aims to uplift, improve and maintain the Edenvale central business districts.

According to Edenvale City Improvement District (ECID) chairperson Mark Verhoogt, the organisation’s directors made the strategic decision to refocus, rebrand and reignite this long-established urban renewal initiative by joining the growing Better Neighbourhoods network of community improvement NPOs.

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Better Neighbourhoods currently includes Better Bedfordview, Better Senderwood, Better Primrose, Better Fourways and Better Linksfield.

Better Edenvale’s new look, logo and revitalised mission were unveiled at a celebration held at Mugg & Bean at The Verge Shopping Centre on May 23.

Edenvale community stakeholders, business and property owners gathered to mark the beginning of an exciting new chapter in Edenvale’s renewal.

“Remarkable improvements have been achieved by ECID over the years. Now it is time for a change and for a new, community-building collaboration. We will build on our strong foundation, on our successes, our loyal supporters and good work. We are ready to do even more to make Edenvale better,” said Verhoogt.

“We are delighted to align ourselves with Better Neighbourhoods and help achieve a shared vision to improve South Africa, one suburb at a time.”

He explained that, as Better Edenvale, the organisation will be positioned to strengthen its reach and impact.

“We are gaining access to shared resources, knowledge and best practices. We are excited to join this growing group of non-profits who are all equally dedicated to building cleaner, greener, safer neighbourhoods and to connecting communities.

“By becoming part of this network, we are not only amplifying our efforts in Edenvale but also contributing to a broader mission to make a sustainable, long-term impact across South Africa.

“The unified Better Neighbourhoods brand is growing and gaining recognition across communities, with businesses, residents, local governments and stakeholders.

“The power of the shared brand provides a stronger sense of recognition and trust across communities. It also gives all Better Neighbourhoods NPOs a powerful collective voice to demand better service, greater accountability and transparency from the municipality,” said Verhoogt.

All Edenvale businesses and property owners are urged to contribute to Better Edenvale, enabling the organisation to accelerate its work to clean up and maintain the area.

Better Edenvale’s focus area extends from Horwood Street to Seventh Street, encompassing Seventh Avenue, Eighth Avenue, Van Riebeeck Avenue, Tenth Avenue and Voortrekker Avenue.

It also includes the Eastleigh CBD, covering Fountain Road, Plantation Road, Central Road, Edendale Road and Main Road.

Better Edenvale is led by dedicated volunteer directors who generously serve the community with no financial remuneration.

“Contributing to Better Edenvale will ensure the growth and success of our town and every business in Edenvale,” Verhoogt emphasised.

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“A clean, safe neighbourhood makes a business more profitable. Customers prefer shopping, dining and doing business in areas that are clean, safe and inviting. It is also good for employees.

“Cleaner, safer streets and public areas contribute to better mental and physical health for everyone, including staff members.”

He added that happier, healthier employees are more motivated and productive.

“Supporting Better Edenvale shows that your business cares about our town, the environment and the local community,” he said.

Verhoogt thanked Mugg & Bean at The Verge Shopping Centre for generously hosting the Better Edenvale launch and donating snack platters for the event.

To find out more or to get involved, email info@betteredenvale.org.za or visit www.betteredenvale.org.za