Establishment of the Mill Park Conservancy
After many years of neglect in the valley, some Mill Park residents decided to take back their neighbourhood green space. As a result of the community's efforts the Mill Park Conservancy became a registered conservancy in 2017. It is now back to being a happy place for community members who enjoy walking, running, mountain biking, or having a relaxing picnic in a safe and pleasant outdoor environment. Thanks to the local residents, gone are the days of neglect, litter, and vagrants.
The official opening of the Mill Park Conservancy took place in October 2018. Members of the Mill Park community, and boys from Grey Junior and High School's mountain bikers attended the official opening of the Mill Park Conservancy’s new valley project. The enthusiastic riders jumped at the opportunity to try out the new trails. This was followed up with a walk through the valley and a cross-country run for the runners.
Where is the Mill Park Conservancy located?
The conservancy can be found in Mill Park, Port Elizabeth/Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, South Africa, and is situated right in the heart of the city and suburban areas The Conservancy has a watercourse that's fed by stormwater that runs through the valley, making it a flourishing environment. It is home to a number of beautiful bird species, as well as an array of vegetation and some small wildlife species that have made the conservancy their home. Parking is available at the entrance to the conservancy in Snowden Avenue. The conservancy is open from 6 am to 6 pm, Monday to Sunday.
Mill Park Conservancy attractions:
There are various walking and hiking trails, many of which are suitable for young or old, and even those unfit individuals.
Photo provided by Holly Barnes
For those more energetic the trails can also be used for a scenic cross-country run.
Mountain bike trails for the mountain bikers are provided. Some inter-school mountain bike events have been hosted.
Photos provided by Holly Barnes
Regular community walks through the conservancy are arranged.
Photos provided by Klaas Kingma
Conservancy provides a place to relax and breathe in the fresh air while you listen to the sounds of nature.
It is a great place to walk your dog (a lead is suggested).
Idyllic picnic spot for relaxing and enjoying the great outdoors.
Birdwatching - Observe finches, red collared barbets, sunbirds, loeries, mousebirds and spotted thick-nee among others.
Photos provided by Klaas Kingma
Observe animals in their natural environment - Spot rock rabbits (dassies) and tortoises.
Indeginous shrubs, plants and wildflowers are plentiful.
Photos provided by Klaas Kingma
Aim of the Mill Park Conservancy
The Mill Park Conservancy aims to partner with the community and meet its needs. They are determined to ensure that the conservancy does not return to the state it was in before they assumed control, six years ago. The conservancy wants to have longevity and provide enjoyment for all locals, now and for future generations.
What changes have been made at the conservancy?
The fences along Target Kloof, Waverley and Ramsay Roads have been completed in order to improve security.
Vagrants have been encouraged to move out.
Bush has been cleared and and a grass terrace has been created as well as an open park area for picnics and relaxation.
Trails for walking and mountain biking purposes were designed and built.
Vast amounts of accumulated trash were removed, and cleanliness is maintained through regular cleanups by the community.
Photo provided by Holly Barnes
An optional annual membership plan was created to provide funding for the upkeep of the conservancy.
Alien trees and plants are being removed and replaced with indigenous plants.
A full time gardner was hired to keep the trails and picnic area neat and tidy.
Conservancy bridge was repaired.
Plans for the future:
Proactive marketing of the conservancy and communicating with existing members.
Targeting the greater Mill Park and Linkside communities to increase membership.
Improving the signage on all walking trails.
Marketing the conservancy to schools, societies, clubs and individuals to encourage the increased use of the conservancy.
Additional lighting will be installed on the Snowden common terraces to increase safety and the use of common areas at night.
Improving on the current facilities on offer.
Pay a visit to the Mill Park Conservancy to see for yourself.
This is the perfect place to relax and enjoy what nature has to offer without leaving the city. The Conservancy is a real gem, flanked by residential neighbourhoods but secluded by the abundance of its flourishing vegetation. Bring along your binoculars or a camera (cellphone) to view or capture the beautiful birdlife, small animals, unique indigenous shrubs, and wildflowers.
Bring along your friends, family, and dogs to enjoy the beautiful Mill Park Conservancy. Visitors are advised to bring along sunscreen when spending considerable time in the conservancy. For safety reasons, preferably don't visit the park alone. Share your visit on Facebook and social media with others to spread the word and consider becoming a member of the Mill Park Conservancy. The Conservancy is a registered Public Benefit Organisation (PBO) and as such can issue a tax deduction certificate for donations made to the Conservancy.
Photos provided by Klaas Kingma
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