Significant progress has been made at the Batavia Street Fynbos Area in Bothasig over the last few months, which include the installation of more sign boards and a long awaited fence.
TygerBurger reported numerous times on the fynbos area throughout the course of last year, an area which houses some of the country’s most endangered fauna and flora.
The newspaper reported on the progress in November last year when Russel Hope, coordinator of the project, discussed the hopes and plans for the area.
This week the ward councillor, Miquette Temlett, gave an update on the work done since then, and what plans they still wish to implement in the new financial year.
She told TygerBurger that the area continues to see positive developments, as they work to preserve the critically endangered ecosystem and ensuring that the area remains safe, accessible and protected for the benefit of the community and future generations. The current projects underway include the post-and-rail fencing, informational sign boards and eviction process, she says.
FENCE
The fence is being installed to further protect the site from unauthorised access and illegal activities, while the sign boards have been erected to educate visitors and to raise awareness about the unique biodiversity of the area, she explains.
The area has over the past few years also been the place where vagrants had set up camp.
Temlett said the City of Cape Town’s relevant departments are currently engaged in the legal process to address illegal occupation.
“However, this remains an ongoing risk. Residents are urged to remain vigilant,” she said. Residents are encouraged to contact the City’s law enforcement on 021 480 7700 if they notice any signs of attempted land invasion and to forward the reference to her directly, she says. The same steps apply to illegal dumping.
Temlett also explained the future plans for the fynbos area.
“Looking ahead, we are excited to announce plans for the installation of a walkway and benches in the coming financial years. These additions will create a more welcoming environment for all while promoting sustainable enjoyment of the space.”
FRIENDS GROUP
The recently established Friends of the Batavia Street Fynbos Area group has also been instrumental in supporting conservation efforts, she said. “Their dedication in keeping the area clean, safe and respected is truly commendable.”
Temlett explained that the area is very important as it features the Cape Flats sand fynbos which is critically endangered.
“This unique vegetation type occurs nowhere else on earth.” This, she explains further, make the area not just a community asset, but a global responsibility.
“If we fail to act, we risk losing this irreplaceable natural heritage forever. It is our collective duty to ensure this space remains a haven for biodiversity, a learning opportunity for our youth, and a recreational refuge for all who live here,” said Temlett.
