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The De Waal Park bandstand has been restored to its former glory and was unveiled earlier this month.
The Edwardian bandstand was built between 1904 and 1905 for the Cape Town Exhibition that was held in Green Point.
It was moved to De Waal Park after the exhibition and has since been used for public performances for the past few decades and contributes to the heritage value of the park.
Francine Higham, Ward 77 councilor, says the refurbishment project also included the repair of the broken wall on Upper Orange Street.
The wall was damaged two years ago when a bus collided with it.
“I am pleased to announce that the upgrade and restoration work on the beautiful bandstand at De Waal Park has been completed. We have also completed the repairs to the wall that was hit by a MyCiTi bus in August 2021. Both projects have been completed to Heritage Western Cape standards.”
I want to give a very special thanks to our superintendent for recreation and parks in Ward 77, Zunaid Allie, for working so hard to get this project completed since he started with us last year. Thank you also to the Friends of De Waal Park for their patience and support while these projects were being completed,” explains Higham.
She says the bandstand is a much-loved feature in the park.
“We are hoping that the bandstand will be well-utilised by the community for gatherings and events, such as yoga or dance classes for example. We are also looking at some flexible, folding seating options. If people are interested in using this space then they can contact me for details about applying for an event permit.”
Mike Bosazza, chair of Friends of De Waal Park, says they have been advocating for the refurbishments of the bandstand and the wall for a few years.
Friends of De Waal Park was established in 2008 by residents to help improve the 126-year-old public park and heritage site in Oranjezicht. They do this through regular clean-ups and maintenance projects.
Bosazza says: “They were able to repair the wall so carefully. I think in time nobody will be able to tell that part of the wall was damaged, which is remarkable. The wall was built in the 1900s.
“The bandstand is beautifully restored, much as it was in 1904. It is going to be so usable.
“The exciting part is that the bandstand becomes an asset in the park and something that people can enjoy. We are hoping to put some tables and chairs there so that you can sit and enjoy your coffee.”
Bosazza explains that the park is used by hundreds of people and says it’s important to keep it maintained.
“They did a fine job. We are pleased. It is not only for concerts. The other day people were doing yoga there. The park is historic and you need to look after your assets.”
According to Higham, further refurbishment projects are on the cards.
“Looking ahead we have some other exciting maintenance projects planned for De Waal Park in this financial year, including the repair of paved walkways, resurfacing of tarred walkways and paths, repairs to other sections of the wall, and upgrades to the play equipment.”
