The new-look Elizabeth Park in Bellville is a shining example of how a public open space can be integrated with universal access to other facilities. Residents can now combine a walk in the park with a visit to the Bellville library. The outdoor gym, one of the main features of the facility, allows visitors to get some exercise in a safe environment.
The City of Cape Town’s Recreation and Parks Department is excited about the completion of the upgrades at Elizabeth Park in Bellville.
The project kicked off in 2016, with the upgrades implemented according to a landscape layout plan which looked at incorporating social, economic and environmental value. The total cost of the project amounted to R18 million.
‘Elizabeth Park forms part of a larger integrated network of open spaces in Bellville and ensures the integration and revitalisation of open spaces which will improve connectivity and visibility to the Voortrekker Road Corridor(VRC). Beautification of this open space is an important catalyst for potential investment along the VRC, a City of Cape Town initiative, as it adds value to the aesthetics of the surrounding buildings and business complexes’, said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Zahid Badroodien.
Apart from some of the key features such as improved architectural aesthetics and a play area with soft surfacing using astro turf, the upgrade of the park includes:
- reshaping and rehabilitation of the Elsieskraal River channel, banks, gabions and river walkway
- rehabilitation landscaping with indigenous vegetation
- universal access ramps and pedestrian footpaths constructed to improve accessibility for all, including those who are differently-abled
- development of a new urban plaza amphitheatre
- refurbishment of the Bellville public library precinct and surrounding play area
The installation of a functional borehole also formed part of the project.
Elizabeth Park has a rich history and was opened in June 1953. In 1968 a culvert was erected over the Elsieskraal River, where a bridge was built to access each section of the park. A Storyboard was erected at the opening of the park which depicts the history and early days of the park.
‘I would like to thank all the role players, including community organisations, for their role in making this project such a success. I am certain that this beautiful facility has a lot of potential and will become a well-used and popular landmark in the northern suburbs. I want to encourage residents and visitors to make use of the facility. Whether you would like to relax, exercise, take a break from the office or read a book, this park is the perfect place to be if you want to spend time in the outdoors. This flagship park is in the community for the community,’ added Councillor Badroodien.
