Ashlea Gardens residents reclaim Tugela Park
What was once an overgrown, neglected public space plagued by illegal dumping and cable stripping has been transformed into a cleaner, safer park through the dedication of local residents, businesses, and volunteers.
Friends of Tugela has become a shining example of how community partnerships can restore neglected public spaces, with volunteers spending every Thursday maintaining Tugela Park in Ashlea Gardens.
The non-profit organisation was established in early 2024 after residents and local property managers grew concerned about the deteriorating condition of the public open space where the Wolwespruit and Waterkloof Spruit meet.
Tugela Park before the revamp
Brendon Gass, Friends of Tugela director and chairperson, explained that the area had become overgrown, leaving it vulnerable to illegal occupation, littering, and environmental degradation.
“Local stakeholders decided to take practical action rather than wait for municipal resources that were already stretched.”
The organisation was formally registered as a non-profit in February 2024 before signing a Community Upliftment Programme (CUP) Memorandum of Agreement with the Tshwane Metro on October 25, 2024.
The initiative is driven by a core team of around 11 volunteers comprising supervisors, general workers and a co-ordinator.
Tugela Park during the revamp
Volunteers come from nearby partner organisations, including Tugela Park, Capel Lodge, Fleur de Lys, Menlyn Boutique Hotel and New Hope School.
Gass said since its inception, the team has carried out extensive improvements throughout the park.
These include clearing dense vegetation and invasive plants, cutting grass, maintaining pathways, repairing and reinforcing perimeter fencing, removing litter and dumped waste, closing gaps in fencing, improving access around the low-water bridge in Umgazi Road and establishing walking routes.
The group has also hosted community events such as a ‘Valentine’s Walk’ and the ‘Concert in Your Park’ while developing a long-term master plan for the area.
Gass said the impact has extended beyond aesthetics.
“There have been zero successful squatter incursions in the past 18 months, trapping and poaching have been eliminated, the park is noticeably cleaner, and residents are once again using it for walking,” he said.
He added that the project has also helped protect local wildlife, including bushbabies, while creating a greater sense of safety in the neighbourhood.
The initiative operates every Thursday, weather permitting, with work carried out in different sections of the park on a rotational basis.
Through its formal agreement with Tshwane metro, Friends of Tugela secures support, while surrounding businesses provide financial contributions. Equipment, funding, and labour donated by community partners also assist with maintenance.
Despite its success, Gass said long-term sustainability remains the project’s biggest challenge.
“The model currently relies entirely on voluntary labour and modest private-sector contributions. Rising costs of fuel, equipment, and protective gear remain a concern.”
Looking ahead, Friends of Tugela hopes to expand walking and cycling routes, restore more natural habitat, host additional community events and establish a funding partnership with the city to ensure the project’s future.
Gass encouraged residents to become involved by joining Thursday work sessions or supporting the initiative through financial or in-kind donations.
“This is not about replacing the city’s responsibilities; it is about partnership, shared ownership and practical action. Every Thursday, the team is out there making a quiet statement that this park belongs to all of us and is worth looking after.”
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