Published on: Jul 11, 2025
We wish to inform Welgemoed residents that at the Welgemoed City Improvement District (WCID) board meeting held on 22 April 2025, due to public demand, a special resolution was passed to revise the plant selection strategy for green areas and parks within the WCID boundaries.
Going forward, planting will prioritise South African indigenous species rather than being limited exclusively to endemic species. This is in line with our formally approved Term-2-business-plan with the following strategic objective for the Greening portfolio: the rehabilitation of local indigenous plants, general maintenance and upgrade of parks and green areas, creating cross-generational common spaces.
We believe that this provides a more attractive and balanced approach to follow. Important to note that this resolution still provides room for the planting of the local Renosterveld endemic plant species, but that the scope of plant choice is broadened to include other indigenous plants as well.
Why Indigenous Planting Is Preferred Instead of Exclusive Use of Renosterveld
1) Aesthetic Appeal in Public Spaces
Public parks are intended for relaxation, recreation, and visual enjoyment. Indigenous plant species generally offer greater diversity in colour, form, and seasonal interest. In contrast, Renosterveld, while ecologically significant, tends to present as dull, grey, and bushy—falling short of the vibrant aesthetic expectations for community parks.
2) Community Feedback
Residents have expressed consistent dissatisfaction with the exclusive use of Renosterveld in our parks, noting that it does not contribute positively to the recreational experience. As public spaces are meant to reflect the needs and preferences of the community, their input has been taken into careful consideration.
3) Unsuitability of Renosterveld for Urban Park Settings
In practice, the exclusive use of Renosterveld has proven ill-suited for managed park environments. Its growth patterns often appear unkempt, obscure visibility, and may raise safety concerns. These traits detract from the functionality and appeal of our public spaces.
4) Lack of Prior Approval
The initial decision to implement exclusive Renosterveld plantings was made without adequate public consultation or formal approval by the CID Board. This strategic update serves to address that oversight and better align future initiatives with governance standards and resident input.
5) Indigenous Planting Supports Both Ecology and Enjoyment
Indigenous plants promote biodiversity, resilience, and water efficiency—while offering the flexibility to create visually engaging and community-friendly landscapes. South Africa’s rich botanical heritage allows us to adopt an ecologically responsible approach without compromising on aesthetics or usability
The following areas have been ear-marked to accommodate indigenous and endemic plant choices respectively:
a) Indigenous plant areas
Welgemoed Welcome Garden & the planned garden on the opposite corner
Sluysken Park (currently endemic, but indigenous plants could be introduced for practical reasons)
Goewerneur Park
Imhoff Park
Chavonne Park
Van der Merwe circle
Patriot Park
Plettenberg Island
b) Endemic plant areas developed by WCID
Kommandeur & Pandoer (Karate club) embankment
Corners of 1 Goewerneur & 21 Saffraan
Pandoer Bell Rosen corner
Kommandeur Medical Centre area
Kommissaris Jip de Jager intersection at Medical Centre
De Oude Embankment (between golf course and Kommissaris Street)
Lincoln Park
We remain committed to maintaining a green, sustainable, and welcoming environment for all residents. Your continued engagement and support are appreciated.
Warm regards
The Welgemoed CID Board
