Central SA
More illegal structures cleared in Arboretum─── REFILWE BEKANE 13:00 Tue, 03 Feb 2026
Efforts to remove illegal settlements on the border of Arboretum and Dan Pienaar were expected to continue on Tuesday (3/2).
Following an initial operation on Monday (2/2), Mangaung metro officials were scheduled to return to the Reservoir Island area near Albrecht Street to dismantle three remaining structures. While the clearing process began earlier in the week, some inhabitants were not present during the first sweep, prompting a follow-up visit to complete the operation.
“Westdene Park has become a vital quiet space for local residents – a place for morning walks, children at play, informal exercise and moments of pause in a busy neighbourhood,” said Westdene Neighbourhood Association (WNA) manager Michael Deutschmann.
According to reports here are ongoing concerns regarding litter and vagrancy in both Happy Valley and Reservoir Island. Photo: Freepik
The intervention was launched after formal requests by Deutschmann, who identified the koppie at the intersection of Albrecht and Brill streets as a key area of concern. Reports indicate that around six to seven people have been living in the veld.
In addition to the removal of illegal structures, ongoing concerns remain about litter and vagrancy in both Happy Valley and Reservoir Island. To address these long-term issues, the WNA is calling on residents and businesses to support the fencing of the area financially.
This strategy follows the 2025 establishment of the Westdene Park Conservancy, located opposite Albrecht Street. After the community funded a secure perimeter and installed controlled access points, the area underwent a major transformation.
The project included:
- clearing debris and establishing walking paths;
- installing public benches; and
- introducing wildlife, including two springbuck and 40 tortoises.
Since the enclosure of the conservancy, the park has seen increased use for morning walks, exercise, and children’s play.
The WNA hopes that the latest removals and proposed fencing around Reservoir Island will form part of the next phase in this broader urban renewal initiative.
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