Better Fourways completes major clean-up
After three weeks of dedicated hard work, Better Fourways has achieved a monumental clean-up at Winnie Mandela Drive and Witkoppen Bridge.
![Better Fourways member after a successful cleanup.](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2024/08/BetterFourwaystea_47082-e1724239596466.jpg)
After three weeks of intensive efforts, Better Fourways is proud to announce the successful completion of the taxi rank cleanup at Winnie Mandela Drive and Witkoppen Bridge.
This initiative has been a monumental task, involving the removal of unsightly debris and hazardous refuse which had accumulated over time. During the cleanup, the team loaded three skip bins, cleared more than ten truckloads of bamboo reeds, discarded cabling from Eskom and other service providers, and filled an astonishing total of over 600 bags with plastic, discarded food, and general refuse.
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![Discarded cables and debris collected during cleanup.](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2024/08/WasteremovedbyBe_20322-520x390.jpg)
The sheer volume of waste removed highlights the urgency and necessity of such community-driven projects. “We’ve made significant strides in cleaning up this crucial area, but this is just the beginning. Our dedicated team worked tirelessly, day in and day out, to ensure that this area is safe and clean for everyone who travels through it,” said Raffaella Carnicelli, chairperson for Better Fourways.
The need for further action remains pressing, particularly regarding storm water drainage. Better Fourways urges the city to address the drainage issues along this section, as the return of rainy weather poses a risk of flooding and further debris accumulation. “If we don’t address the storm water drainage now, all our hard work could very well be undone when the rains come,” added Carnicelli.
![Better Fourways member after a successful cleanup.](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2024/08/BetterFourwaysmem_14799-e1724239673661-222x400.jpg)
Also read: Fourways residents plead for the betterment of their area
This project was made possible by the generous contributions of amazing sponsors, with a special mention to Best Deck and Lawn Care Plus for providing essential resources. “Without their support, this cleanup would not have been achievable, their commitment to bettering our community is commendable, and we are grateful for their partnership” Carnicelli acknowledged.
Better Fourways is calling on the community for continued support in maintaining these clean areas and preventing the return of vagrants. The organisation is looking for companies that can offer fencing solutions to help secure these spaces. “Informal settlements are popping up at an alarming rate. We must come together as a community to prevent vagrants from setting up homes in our open areas. If any businesses can assist with fencing solutions, we urge you to reach out to us.”
![Better Fourways members cleaning up stormwater drainage.](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2024/08/Witkoppenbridge_57338-520x390.jpg)
“This is a community effort, and together we can make a lasting difference. We appreciate all that our community members have done so far, and ask everyone to step up in any way they can. The road ahead is long, but with collective action, we can create a cleaner, safer Fourways.”
For more information, or to make donations, you can contact Raffaella Carnicelli at Raff.c@mweb.co.za, or visit their website at Betterfourways.org.za.
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