All the concerns raised by Coniston Park residents about a proposed canal project in the area will be considered before a final decision is taken, says the City.
This follows a public information session that the City held earlier this month on the design of the Sand and Langvlei canals confluence project, which is set to start in the latter half of 2025 (“Have your say on plan for Coniston Park waterways,” Southern Mail, Wednesday October 16).
The project is part of the City’s Liveable Urban Waterway programme to restore the waterway to a more natural state with litter traps to stop pollutants reaching downstream and the ocean; reinstated wetland areas; and recreational facilities.
But Dominic Williams and other residents fear the project could turn Coniston Park into a “wet wasteland” that will bode ill for the community.
“With the added provisions being made for the filtering of water and build-up of solid and possibly effluent waste being brought further into the area and all recreational spaces ahead of the proposed changes, what good does that do at all for the community?” he said.
And some residents were concerned that more recreational space could attract criminality, he said.
“This is not Rondebosch and more affluent areas, which are relatively safe, this is the Cape Flats, and this project adds absolutely no value to the residents here.”
Ward 68 councillor Marita Petersen said the project would improve the condition of waterways in the area. The plans had been widely advertised to inform the community and include it in the process, she added.
“We need to upgrade the canals and ensure the water quality is enhanced…We engaged around the proposed development or initiative for almost two years. We invited communities from the various wards and the attendance was, as usual, poor.
“We cannot neglect our communities because we hold a perception that the property values will depreciate. All factors were taken into consideration including safety, economic benefit to the area etc.”
Mayoral committee member for water and sanitation Zahid Badroodien said the project, which was still in its design phase, was a way to rehabilitate waterways in response to increasingly unpredictable climate conditions.
Three workshops had been held in July, September and November of 2022 to give residents a chance to have a say in “shaping the design” of the project, he said.
“The City remains open to constructive feedback to ensure the project is a long-term success for all involved.”
The project offered more than just aesthetic improvements, he said.
“The creation of a healthier, functioning wetland will serve several critical purposes, including natural filtering of water, leading to improved water quality, and increased natural habitat, promoting biodiversity.”
The design would prevent silt and litter from entering Zandvlei while turning the area into a safe, green space with much-needed recreational amenities.
A well-kept public space could discourage crime, especially when paired with community involvement in revitalizing previously unsafe areas, Dr Badroodien said.
“We acknowledge the concerns about criminality, and will, through the appropriate authorities, bring this to their attention. Security is a priority for the project team, and we are committed to working closely with various law enforcement agencies and the community to ensure the park is safe and welcoming for all.”
According to Natalie Ritsch, environmental manager for Lukhozi Consulting Engineers, the deadline for comment on the draft basic assessment report is today, Wednesday October 30. Email comments to n.ritsch@lukhozi.co.za for the attention of Natalie Ritsch.
