Not even a year later and the astonishing work done in Huddle Park shows what can be achieved if the community fights for what they believe in.-
The land and buildings, which were in a state of disrepair because of neglect and the presence of vagrants, have been transformed to such an extent that it is hard to believe its past.-
For years the public fought against City of Johannesburg’s (CoJ) plans to develop the land.-
Council then decided that two-thirds of the property would be preserved as open space to conserve the wetland. –
The city sold about 52 hectares of the approximate 183 hectares for development.-
A team of community members obtained a 30-year lease from council for the remainder of the land.-
In a matter of months, Mr David Bagg, from Linksfield and a number of other residents, have created a place people are raving about.-
The new Huddle Park Golf and Recreation facility offers golfers a unique experience. Families from across Johannesburg are pouring in, be it for put-put, a snack or just an open area to socialise.-
“There is proper parking for 299 vehicles, there is security, the pro shop is open and people are enjoying the outside patio.-
“Children are also thrilled with the 18-hole put-put facility. We have had night runs and night golf events. Most of our function rooms are complete and already in use. People can also enjoy a meal close to the fireplace in one of the function rooms,” said Mr Bagg. –
The driving range and the 9-hole mashie course are open. Schoolchildren have competed in a number of cross-country races and dog walkers are making use of the facility.-
The dams have been cleared and wildlife and birdlife are returning.
Ms Ethne Koffler, St Andrews resident, said she loves the new Huddle Park Golf and Recreation facility.
“It is a great place to visit. It is open and children can play. It is a healthy outdoor experience,” she said.
Mrs Shoshana Behr from Senderwood and Mrs Mandy Mathieson, a Linksfield resident, raved about the facility during their visit there recently.
Mrs Behr said it is a great place for adults and children to relax.
Ms Lisa Etkind from Bedford Park said Huddle was a huge piece of land that was wasted in the past.
“The team filled a huge gap for us by providing what this facility has to offer. It is fabulous to have a facility that is safe where people can have fun,” she said.
Speaking about the past year, Mr Bagg said, “I had a vision and although there were a number of hurdles, the team overcame them. I am confident that we will deliver on our promises made to the community. There is still a lot more to come.”
Some of the facilities to look forward to include a sports bar, a tea garden, a chip and putt area and cycle and running track. It is anticipated that the blue course will be open by the end of the year.
