Community battles topsoil loss to save Lyttelton Manor park
Tshwane University of Technology students join forces with local residents to install modular concrete benches and build dead hedges along Fleur Park's steep slopes.
Volunteers in Lyttelton Manor are expanding their restoration of Fleur Park, tackling soil erosion and invasive plants.
The Friends of Fleur Park project began around November last year, with the goal of turning a neglected public space into a safe, welcoming community space.
Image: Supplied
Residents have supported the work by donating staff to assist with maintenance and invasive plant removal.
Project manager James Grobler said: “The more the community sees the difference a few can make, the more community involvement it inspires.”
Community efforts expand with student collaboration
The project has also introduced new features. Tshwane University of Technology architecture students completed a one-day project casting modular concrete benches, while residents established a compost bin and cleared the exercise area of overgrowth.
The latest focus is erosion and topsoil loss on its slopes.
During a community workday on September 19, residents and other organisations worked on the steep island between the church and the park’s parking lot along Van Riebeeck Avenue.
A dead hedge was constructed to slow stormwater runoff, while local natural stone was used to build low retaining walls and terrace the slope.
Residents also donated indigenous plants and cuttings.
Although the team could not complete the section after running out of materials, including topsoil, Grobler said the work was still progress.
“We take everything and anything as progress and realise that this will once more be an ongoing project,” he said.
The Adopt-a-Spot initiative has also seen three of 10 identified areas beneath existing trees adopted by residents.
Image: Supplied
Image: Supplied
Overcoming challenges to protect wildlife
Longer-term plans include installing donated jungle gyms once health and safety requirements are finalised with the metro.
However, sourcing materials remains a challenge.
Grobler said the park covers 3.5ha, meaning even small projects require significant resources.
Lyttelton resident Jeffrey Donalds said the community effort showed what could be achieved when residents worked together.
“Simple efforts, such as just coming together as residents to conduct a clean-up, can go a long way to help make our spaces beautiful and welcoming,” Donalds said.
Grobler said the project had grown beyond improving the park, with the Friends of Fleur Park also seeking to protect wildlife habitats in the urban environment.
“What better place to start than a 3.5ha park in the heart of the urban fabric?” he said.
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