Protection of Open Spaces

The principles underpinning the provision of open spaces range from functional concerns such as stormwater management and on-site management of environmental problems to more qualitative concerns such as ecological preservation and provision of recreational spaces.  Urban open spaces provide relief from the built-up urban environment in a number of ways. Whilst providing recreational amenity, they also assist in stormwater management, absorption of noise pollution, provision of conservation areas for indigenous fauna and flora, regulation of the effects of the climate and the supplying of areas for urban agriculture.

The GCM Open Space system is an integral and functional part of the Durban Metropolitan Open Space System (D-MOSS).

Three broad structural elements were used in determining an Open Space System for Cato Manor:

Core Areas are locations where conservation is the primary function.
Six core areas are proposed:

1. Sherwood
2. SPCA Grasslands
3. University Core
4. Umbilo Meander
5. Hillary
6. Roosfontein

Link/Corridors ensure ecological continuity between the core areas. These are typically associated with water courses. Within Cato Manor a corridor exists along the Umbilo River, linking the Roosfontein Core, Hillary/Bellair and the University. The two other important links are the Umkumbaan River between Maryvale and Bellair sports fields and along Bellair Road essentially linking the University to Sherwood.