Their local park had gone into total disrepair. Rather than look away, Constantia residents have set out to fix it!
Cape Town, South Africa (10 November 2026) – A project powered by a community that cares all began when Constantia resident Michal Leon took her granddaughter to their local Parish Park, only to find the play area in such disrepair that it was unusable.
That came as a disappointment. For years, the local park had been a favourite green space for people in the Silverhurst area. Local families would visit, people would walk their dogs there, and children would play in the park.
Time had taken its toll, though. Play equipment has aged, surfaces need TLC, and the grounds require a full revamp to keep the space safe and accessible
And so, instead of turning away, Michal decided to rally her neighbours. Her thoughts were that, perhaps, they could all fix it together.
“The response was very encouraging, and with the help from the City of Cape Town via the local Councillor, Emile Langenhoven the process started.” Michal shares with Good Things Guy.
Michal is now Chair of Friends of Parish Park, a non-profit association established to protect, upgrade, and maintain the park in partnership with the city. Michal says the vision is to create an inclusive, safe, and modern outdoor space that the entire neighbourhood can enjoy for years to come.
A revamp plan has been put together to cover all areas of the park that need tending. This includes bringing in new sustainable play equipment, upgrading safety surfaces, indigenous landscaping, creating accessible pathways for prams, wheelchairs and all park visitors, improved seating, and introducing outdoor fitness equipment for community members to exercise in fresh air.
The work to bring the beloved park at the corner of Southern Cross Drive and Parish Road back to life in better shape has already begun!
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The design of the revamp has also been completed with the help of resident Margot van der Westhuizen, who donated her time and skill. Dr Marie Venn helped source suppliers for the various elements needed, and locals Warren Machanik and Handre van der Merwe set up the association’s website and social media, as well as funding channels.
As with any community upgrade, there is a price. So far, the response has been positive with over R28,000 collected toward the initial target of R120,000 that would fund the first part of the project – the children’s playground.
The revamp depends entirely on the Constantia community’s backing. With support, Parish Park will once again become a place that residents cherish. A space that serves everyone safely and accessibly!
“The team is calling on local residents, families, and businesses to back the initiative—whether through donations to the fund, lending a hand on project days, or helping spread the word.” Friends of Parish Park shares.
Seeff The Uppers has helped the association get the word out with a social media campaign. Check out the video below to hear more from Michal!
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