The Wilds becomes a heritage site

The 40-acre natural forest in the heart of the city known as The Wilds received a major boost on 24 January when it was declared a heritage site.

The celebration put together by Joburg City Parks and Zoo acknowledged the volunteer-run restoration project of The Wilds led by Killarney resident and artist James Delaney over the past five years.

Delaney said, “It is wonderful that The Wilds is being recognised by authorities so that locals will take it more seriously.

This space, which was forgotten for the last two decades, has come alive again thanks to the local community.”

The unveiling of the blue plaque not only ushered in the new heritage status of this indigenous forest but also celebrated the new arrival area paid for by the local community, costing R100 000.

The stones were donated by Roedean School and the area was designed by Martine de la Harpe.

“People need to keep bringing new ideas and knowledge to this space.

“We welcome gardening clubs and locals with an interest in gardening into this space to make it their own,” added Delaney.

Chair of the Joburg Heritage Foundation, Brett McDougall said the park was established in 1924 through a donation of land by the Houghton Estate Township Company to the city. The park was later dedicated to the memory of Jan Smuts following his death in 1950 and declared a national monument in 1981.

Interim Ward 67 councillor Kabelo Mpesi, who unveiled the blue plaque alongside Delaney said, “The community must come and witness this place and its beauty.

“Heritage does not only come with prestige but also responsibility. The community needs to come together to maintain this park.”

Managing director of Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo, Bryne Maduka thanked Delaney and others for their efforts which have made The Wilds into the beautiful space it is today.

“We desire more collaborative efforts at other parks across the city,” said Maduka.

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