"From eyesore to beauty: Verulam's community-led green transformation"

RESIDENTS and businesses in Verulam have joined forces to transform a neglected roadside area into a beautiful green space, inspiring community pride and environmental awareness as Arbor Day approaches.

The 'adopt-a-spot' initiative on Mountview Drive demonstrates how small community actions can create significant positive change.

Spear-heading the project is community activist and entrepreneur, Avani Roopan.

“The area that we identified for this project had become an eyesore.

Over time, it has been neglected with overgrown weeds and dirt. Through a simple act of care, we decided to adopt the spot and make it beautiful and a safer place for motorist and passers-by. What was once an uninspiring corner, has now become a source of pride for the community. Trees and flowers have been carefully planted and lovingly maintained,” said Roopan.

Verulam residents have welcomed this initiative, praising the team for making the roadside neat, tidy, and welcoming.

“The garden has not only brightened the space but also inspired a sense of unity and appreciation for the environment,” said Roopan.

Dawncrest resident, Shoshi Chetty, who passes this spot daily, said she was grateful for the effort and funds that had put into the 'adopt-a-spot' initiative to make the municipality property so pretty.

Roopan’s husband and businessman, Rickesh said he hoped their work would serve as a motivation for others to do the same.

“Adopting a spot does not require massive resources, only dedication and consistency. Planting a few trees, tending to flowers, and keeping an area clean can make a remarkable difference, not just in appearance but also in how residents feel about their community,” he added.

“In the end, every little effort counts. We have seen how people respond positively when they drive past this space. Imagine if more families, businesses, and organisations adopted areas in their neighbourhoods. Verulam could become a town filled with greenery, colour, and pride,” he said.

As Arbor Day draws near, this garden stands as a living reminder of what’s possible when individuals take initiative.

Roopan said she hoped more communities could embark on such projects to contribute to a cleaner, greener South Africa.

“After all, planting a tree is more than just gardening, it’s planting hope for generations to come,” added Roopan.

Arbor week will be celebrated from September 1 to 7. It is celebrated annually to encourage tree planting and care for the natural environment. The day is also a reminder that every tree planted is an investment in the future.

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