Client: City of Ekurhuleni

Budget: R15 000 000

​Completed: 2015/2016

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Boksburg Lake was built as a dam in the 1800s and therefore has an extensive history in the greater Johannesburg area. In recent years, however, it has fallen victim to neglect, so in an effort to revitalise the area, Outer Space Landscape Architects was brought on board by the City of Ekurhuleni to revitalise the lake and its surrounds. 

This regeneration project of one of the city’s major green lungs would take place in three phases to the tune of R15 million. By reviving this recreational community space in the Boksburg Central Business District, the City of Ekurhuleni hopes it will be the catalyst for urban renewal in the area.

The project was completed in three phases with the first starting in 2015. Major earthworks took place during phases one and two, so as to enlarge the park’s utility surface and make way for further development. This included the removal of an unauthorised arterial road used by motorists to avoid traffic; this exercise increased the park’s size by 10 000 square metres. Other features included the installation of perimeter fencing and controlled accesses points, a network of three-metre wide brick-paved walkways to steer pedestrian traffic, as well as a 500-seater multipurpose amphitheatre. In the construction of these facilities, the design team thought it important to recognise both the city’s rich vernacular Highveld architectural legacy with the use of red clay brick and sandstone elements – both distinctive features of Boksburg’s buildings. While having a sentimental purpose, these materials are also functional in that they are robust in their ability to withstand the elements and general wear-and-tear that comes with high usage. 

The final phase saw the installation of recreational facilities such as a climbing wall, jungle gyms, swings, gym equipment, mini soccer fields and basketball courts. Braai areas were also established.

The use of environmentally sound ecological principles has played a role in the greening of the nine-hectare park. Reed beds have been introduced to filter the lake’s water and improve its aquatic health, while water-friendly and indigenous highveld plant species such as acacia and wild olive trees have been planted throughout. In addition, solar lights have been installed with the aim of improving security in the park while keeping electricity costs at a minimum.

In time, it’s intended that Boksburg Lake will once again return to its former glory while providing its surrounding community and future generations with an outdoor recreational space.