Restore Bluff lake on golf course
These wetlands and lakes were drained or filled in over the years.
EDITOR – Recently an article written by Colleen Dardagan appeared in the Natal Mercury concerning the development of Durban Bay.
The article concentrated on the loss of the bay mangrove swamps and how this impacted the once abundant birdlife.
The article overlooks the valley on the Bluff. The valley was once a series of lakes which was home to abundant bird and wildlife.
These wetlands and lakes were drained or filled in over the years. I have heard stories of people fishing in boats on the lake where the Bluff golf course is. I’m sure some of our older residents could verify this.
Surely the golf course should be returned to its original state as a wetland and lake? While this is the last relatively untouched area in South Durban, any further development should be resisted. Its isolated position from industry makes it perfect for rehabilitation.
Large industry in South Durban can play a role by assisting in this. They can earn tax incentives similar to a programme running in Johannesburg for instance by funding the rehabilitation of the valley.
With the imminent loss of Clairwood Racecourse as a green area, we should be looking to protect this area before some greedy developer has a chance to ruin it for good.
