VR Park enters phase two of ecosystem restoration

THE highly-anticipated second phase of the Van Riebeeck Ecological and Recreational project is officially underway.

This was confirmed by Bluff councillor JP Prinsloo who, while speaking to the SUN, shared that phase two of the project includes the implementation of the Working for Eco Systems Programme. “This will tackle ecosystem restoration, sustainable development and the provision of green jobs, which make up key factors in achieving community ecosystem-based adaptation to climate change.”

READ: Van Riebeeck conservation park breaks ground

According to Prinsloo eThekwini Municipality’s Environmental Planning and Climate Protection Department (EPCPD) first initiated this programme in the city in late 2006. The programme is commonly known as Working for Ecosystems (WFE). “The philosophy behind the WFE concept is to build a holistic and positive interaction between local communities and the environment. Training and employment opportunities are created with the aid of management in the environmentally important areas, which contributes to how well those communities can become more self-sustaining and more adapted to natural disasters as may occur due to climate change,” he explained.

The expansion of the WFE programme into the Van Riebeeck Ecological and Recreational Park will see the removal of 18,3 hectares of various invasive alien plants currently located within the park. “Invasive alien plants (IAPs) are considered one of the biggest threats to biodiversity and the supply of free ecosystem services within the municipal area. Ecosystem services are critically important not only for human livelihoods but also for societal adaptation to climate change. Addressing threats to these services save money and ensure improved service delivery to local people. Controlling IAPs does not only ensure improved water flow and reduced soil erosion, but also the direct benefits to local people, livestock and biodiversity are significant.”

READ: Van Riebeeck Park oasis takes shape

The WFE programme has a strong sustainable development focus and, together with EPCPD and the Ward Committee’s Small Business Development Committee, aims to equip local residents appointed to the project with business skills required for registration and operation as cooperatives in the Bluff community. This includes assistance with registration on the city’s procurement database which is essential if co-ops are tendering for other work offered by the municipality.

“Once enough IAP’s have been removed by the local team, phase three of the project will commence with the construction of formal walkways, recreational spots and other environmentally friendly attractions. The Van Riebeeck Ecological and Recreational Park will finally breath new life into an old unused landfill site to a destination that will attract locals and tourists from across the country,” said an eager Prinsloo.

Join the Bluff Community Noticeboard Facebook page for more updates on the programme.

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