Dumping Hotspot Transformed into Thriving Community Garden
A former illegal dumping site in Eldoraigne, situated at the corner of Theuns van Niekerk Street and Hendrik Verwoerd Drive, is nearing full transformation into a vibrant community garden. Since April, residents, local businesses, and Ward 69 councillor Cindy Billson have worked together to reclaim the space through donations, volunteerism, and sustainable landscaping.
A neglected corner once plagued by illegal dumping has been revitalised into a vibrant green space, thanks to a united community effort in Eldoraigne.
Since the initiative began in April, the site—at the intersection of Theuns van Niekerk Street and Hendrik Verwoerd Drive—has undergone a remarkable transformation into a thriving community garden.
Ward 69 councillor Cindy Billson praised the rapid progress, noting that key infrastructure is already in place. “The pathway to the nearby bus stop has been completed, and we’ve constructed the first raised flower bed,” she said.
Nearly half the garden area has been layered with donated dumping rock to shape the terrain, while local support has driven the project forward with over R63,000 worth of materials contributed—ranging from paving bricks and topsoil to plants and river sand.
Notable contributions include aloe trees from the Lifestyle Centre and indigenous plants from local residents. Volunteers have played a crucial role, helping transport materials and care for plants prior to planting. “It’s truly a community-driven achievement,” Billson added.
With completion targeted for the end of June, the final tasks include constructing a second raised bed and covering the remaining surface. Billson mentioned that 22 bags of cement and black weed cover are still needed to finish the job.
Beyond its visual appeal, the garden has sparked renewed community spirit. “Residents are taking ownership. It’s more than a beautification project—it’s creating pride, safety, and connection,” she said. The garden also improves visibility and safety around the bus stop, discouraging future dumping.
Looking ahead, plans are underway for a second garden along Hendrik Verwoerd Drive between Theuns van Niekerk and Willem Botha streets. “It’s a large space and will be a bigger challenge, but we aim to create a continuous stretch of green public spaces in Ward 69,” Billson said. The project aligns with the Broken Windows Theory—maintaining urban environments to deter crime and neglect.
The project’s design was led by Sheevan Moodley, a local resident and environmental advocate. His sustainable approach includes indigenous planting, rainwater harvesting, and low-maintenance landscaping. Moodley also implemented a maintenance schedule to ensure long-term community involvement.
Local business owner Eben Grove and resident Phillip de Jager echoed the sentiment that restoring neglected areas strengthens community bonds and pride. “This is about more than plants—it’s about people showing up for one another,” said Grove.
Billson encouraged more residents to get involved. “Every contribution helps. Together, we’re showing that change is possible when communities take action,” she said. Interested individuals can reach her via WhatsApp at 079 398 6990.
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