RESIDENTS of north Durban have welcomed the addition of three signboards mapping out the trails inside the Virginia Bush Nature Reserve. The 38 hectare reserve situated between Adelaide Tambo Drive (Kensington Drive) and Margaret Maytom Avenue is split into three sections, top, middle and lower which recently had trails developed, especially for people who run the trails and some dog walkers.
Now three signboards mapping out the reserve, naming the different trails have been erected at the entrance to each section.
The project was spearheaded by local group, Friends of Virginia Bush, who look after the well-being and maintain sections of the reserve and Riverside Trails.
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No dogs are allowed at the original (top) part of the reserve because the coastal bush includes many birds. The circular route around the reserve is about 1.5km.
Local resident and member of Friends of Virginia Bush, Grant Harper, said he hoped the signboards would entice residents to explore a green lung in the heart of Durban North.
“Over the years the trails have become more popular, for runners, bird watchers and residents just wanting an escape from the urban jungle surrounding us. We felt these signboards mapping out the reserve would help people. We’ve had a few people get lost on the trails and we felt it would show you how diverse the trails are with multiple routes shown on the map. Buzz Bolton from Riverside Trails has been hard at work and we hope these signs will help people familiarise themselves with the reserve. I’ve been running for 20 years and the tranquility of this green lung and the birdlife are what keeps me coming back. The short circuit is also a great workout and the reserve is family friendly,” he said.
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Longtime trail runner Buzz Bolton who helped map out the trails concurred with Harper’s sentiments.
“We do two weekly runs through the reserve every week and I’d encourage anyone who would like to join our group to come along and explore the reserve on a trail run. We felt these signs would help people familiarise themselves with the reserve and spread the word on the routes and walks. As Grant (Harper) has said, there are a number of trails for bird spotters and those for dog-walkers and families, so the reserve has something for everyone. We’d like to extend our gratitude to all the sponsors who helped fund the project,” he said.
According to Harper, Friends of Virginia Bush, were intending on adding QR (quick response) codes which would allow visitors to access the map on their phones while walking in the reserve.
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