The ‘Heart of Durban North’ was officially launched on Saturday, 4 December, with a spectacular clean-up and re-plant of the greater Broadway precinct.
According to Ward 36 Councillor, Shontel de Boer, a few years ago property owners in the area brainstormed the idea of joining forces, hence the creation of the Broadway Business Forum for the purpose of securing and cleaning up the precinct. After the recent unrest, the importance of community became even clearer and thus the ‘Heart of Durban North’ was born.
“We joined forces with Marshall Security, Enviro Fixers Durban North and Durban North Conservancy. We have already started with the upkeep of the area including substantial weeding, re-planting of flower beds as well as tackling general wear and tear. Our interaction so far with shop owners, property owners and the local community has been extremely positive,” said Cllr de Boer.
Envirofixer, Helen Koch, commented that ultimately it is an initiative of getting the community together to leave their footprint, making it greener and more secure.
“Those who attended could either choose to be a planter and gardener or a cleaner. It’s a case of trying to get everyone to roll up their sleeves. The recent riots have shown us just how powerful community can be and we want Durban North to be a safe space for everyone,” said Koch.
