Street art smart: UIP aims to beautify Glenwood

GLENWOOD Urban Improvement Precinct (GUIP) is currently hard at work on projects which make up its ‘placemaking’ mandate.

Speaking on initiatives on the go at the moment, GUIP precinct manager, Vernon Stokes, said the group is currently improving two neglected servitudes in the area.

“The servitude off Noble Road has received extra attention and we have just finished another off Crart Road. This is part of our latest initiative where we have identified 23 locations in the precinct, including major intersections, where upgrades will be part of our placemaking mandate. This is over and above those we have already completed and now fall under our maintenance portfolio,” said Stokes.

He said the GUIP’s relationship of reciprocity with Robin Opperman and Ujala Sewpersad from Umcebo Design continues to bear fruit on a regular basis, especially as part of the UIP’s placemaking initiatives.

Robin recently completed a mural in an alley off Brents Avenue, Glenwood, as part of the mural project Umcebo and the GUIP are in partnership with.

Commenting on his latest creation, Robin said this was the start of a series called Alley Cats, which he hoped would spread to other back alleys in the community.

ALSO READ: New mural to brighten up Bulwer Park

“People are encouraged to get paint from their store rooms or neighbours and create these murals in their alleys. Through this project we are also showing our support for the GUIP at a community level and showing that we see what they are doing and are willing to do anything to assist in beautifying the community,” he said.

Robin appealed for any donations of acrylic or PVC paint for the ongoing project. If anyone wants to donate, or get involved, they can contact him on 083 793 3408.

Vernon said the GUIP is also continuing with other initiatives which includes the identification of illegal dumpers for prosecution and the lobbying for trimming of trees that are obscuring streetlights and encroaching on business premises.

“Our security contingent is fully operational and in this field we are trying to make an impact in the prevention of crime. Additionally day to day cleaning in the precinct continues unabated,” he concluded.

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