Obs leaders’ TRUP vision

The Two Rivers Urban Park Association (TRUPA), Civic Association (OCA), and various other community organisations have for months been working intensively on their vision for the Two Rivers Urban Park (TRUP), where a large development is proposed by the provincial government.

The organisations have been actively involved in the on-going public participation process to ensure that the community's vision for the area is taken into account.

Carolyn Neville, Chairperson OCA said that her dream for the area, which includes Two Rivers Urban Park, River Club and the Oude Molen Eco-Village, consists of a well designed, environmentally friendly, inclusive development.

"No building should dominate 〝 none should be more than five levels high. All buildings become ＆green buildings using solar panels, rain water capture and recycling waste," she said.

She added that accommodation in and around Obs should be suitable for all income groups.

There should be a reasonable number of social housing units bringing lower income people closer to the city and work opportunities.

The OCA has also been lobbying for the protection of the Liesbeek River and Black River, which forms part of the TRUP area.

Carolyn said: "The rivers should run clean and flow freely."

She also noted that while the area is up for future development, the area's history should be accurately recorded, and tribute paid to those who lived there in previous generations.

Hudson McComb, TRUP chairperson, asked the question: "What do Observatory citizens want for the future?"

He encourages all residents to attend the OCA meeting on Wednesday, 18 January, to find out more about the proposed development of the TRUP area and give input and suggestions on how this land should be utilised.