A new urban rehabilitation project aimed at stopping illegal dumping and restoring the environment under Connaught Bridge has been launched, marking the most structured intervention yet at a site long identified as a pollution hotspot along the Umgeni River.

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The initiative — Protect Our Rivers & Oceans: Connaught Bridge Urban Art & Garden — seeks to turn the neglected underpass into a monitored, beautified and environmentally protected space through a mix of public art, indigenous planting and ongoing clean-up operations.

Organisers have begun fundraising, with R2 606 pledged towards a R50 000 goal, and 41 days left in the campaign.

From dump to public space
The project aims to interrupt the longstanding cycle of dumping that has seen tonnes of waste collecting beneath the bridge and washing into surrounding river systems.

Organisers said the goal is not only to clean up the environment, but to change how the public sees and treats the space.

“Experience has shown that when a space looks cared for, it is treated differently,” the campaign states. “This is not just about cleaning up — it is about changing how the space is seen and used.”

Ward councillor Heinz de Boer welcomed the initiative, calling it a critical step in reversing years of degradation.

“Connaught Bridge has reached a tipping point. This project creates an opportunity to stabilise the area, restore some dignity to the space and ultimately protect our waterways,” said De Boer.

He added that community-driven interventions, combined with ongoing municipal action, are essential if the area is to be reclaimed permanently.

“Illegal dumping will not stop unless the space is visibly cared for and actively monitored. This project brings the community back into the picture, and that is exactly what the bridge has needed for years,” he said.

Longstanding environmental concern

The Connaught Bridge underpass has featured repeatedly in Northglen News reporting over recent years, with volunteer clean-ups, illegal dumping concerns and environmental warnings highlighting the ongoing decline of the site.

Funds raised will go toward waste removal, art materials and artist support, and environmental signage.

“No dumping. Recycle. Protect our rivers and oceans,” the campaign states.

Support this campaign by making a pledge at Thundafund or Backabuddy  

Key interventions include:
A large-scale community mural reclaiming and visually elevating the space
An indigenous river-edge garden to stabilise soil and soften the site
Clear “No Dumping” and recycling signage
Ongoing waste removal and diversion into recycling streams
Direct involvement of local residents and artists

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