Trafalgar Park’s bandstand gets a make-over

The refurbished Trafalgar Park bandstand was unveiled on Wednesday November 24.

The work, which includes a new roof and a coat of paint, was covered by the recreation and park’s department’s budget.

The Woodstock park and its bandstand date back to 1905, says Ward 115 councillor Ian McMahon, citing City archives.

“It was established as a park for District Six; the name Trafalgar was chosen as it was the centenary of the Battle of Trafalgar.”

Trafalgar Place, which most people know as the site for the Adderley Street flower sellers, was named at the same time, he said.

“The land was purchased by the City from, what was called in records, the colonial government for an amount of 1069 pounds and a few shillings.”

And there was a 100-pound budget for band performances in the park and a fence.

“Due to the success of the band performances in Government Avenue and De Waal Park, council wanted to extend these on a Sunday afternoon for residents of District Six.”

Friends of Trafalgar Park chairman Andrea Couvert said the refurbishment of the bandstand was the first stage in a wider maintenance drive. “The next stage would be to fix the play area and to sort out the water fountain.”

The park is cleaned by Streetscapes, a homeless-assistance programme run by Khulisa Solutions, a non-profit organisation.

District Six Foundation member Nadiema Safter said: “The community uses this park so much and has done so for over 100 years so is excited to see developments, plans and investments into this community park.”

Councillor McMahon said his office was committed to the upkeep and maintenance of the park.

“In next year’s ward-allocation budget, funds have been set aside to undertake various further upgrades, outdoor gym equipment, and repairs to the drinking fountain,” he said.