Cape Town - The City has called on Capetonians, particularly those living in Milnerton, to comment on its proposal to rename Lupin Park in memory of the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu.
The recreational area is adjacent to the home of the late archbishop and his family, where his widow Leah Tutu still resides.
Speaking at a small ceremony, where plans to upgrade and rename the park were unveiled, Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis said the archbishop was extremely fond of the park.
“I am told they loved to spend some quiet moments here. In developing and renaming this park, we aim to create a beautiful and vibrant space for the Milnerton community and visitors,” Hill-Lewis said.
“We invite all residents to participate in the public participation process to ensure continued community involvement in the park’s development,” he said.
The idea to rename and carry out upgrades at the park was initiated through engagements between the City, the Royal Ascot Master Property Owners Association, the Milnerton
Central Ratepayers Association and the Archbishop Tutu IP Trust.
Proposed developments to the park will include an extensive children’s play area, a memorial garden, commemorative artwork, outdoor performance spaces, and a dog park.
Commenting on the plans, Archbishop Tutu IP Trust chairperson Mamphela Ramphele said they were initiated by Milnerton residents.
“It is an authentic local tribute of love and respect for the Tutu family from the community they have been part of for nearly 30 years. The only condition the trust imposed on the project was that it be thrifty. The Arch would not have wanted the City to incur a great expense. We are very grateful to Mayor Hill-Lewis for his enthusiastic leadership of the project.”
The concept plan for Lupin Park will be presented at a public meeting scheduled for October 1 at the Milnerton Auditorium.
All interested parties are urged to attend for feedback and questions.
nomalanga.tshuma@inl.co.za
Cape Argus