Work is done at Oriel Park

Trenches have been dug, pipes laid, and construction vehicles are in an out of Oriel Park, all in a bid to upgrade and rehabilitate the park.

Ward 20 councillor, Clr Michele Clarke, said the rehabilitation project includes the upgrading of the storm water system of the area.

The NEWS previously published stories about complaints from the community, ward councillors and the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality (EMM) that different developers did not upgrade the storm water system as and when they were constructing their developments.

Clr Clarke said the project started about three years ago.

“After long deliberations between the stakeholders, we came to an agreement to start the project from Plantation Road down to Branton Road, leading to the attenuation ponds in the park. Huge culverts and pipes for the storm water drain system have been laid from Plantation Road all the way to Oriel Park. The roads where the new pipes have been laid are also being rehabilitated,” said Clr Clarke.

She said the attenuation ponds in the park will hold the water around the area, especially during flooding or heavy rains and release it slowly into the stream.

“This will help eliminate chances of flooding and the erosion of the banks. What I also like about this, is that you will not see the attenuation ponds when the project is done. The land will be rehabilitated and grass will be planted,” she said.

She added that the bridge on Nettleton Road will also be rehabilitated.

Clr Clarke said she had confidence in the upgrades.

“With these upgrades, we will not experience flooding unless the water rises to extraordinary levels. But normal, heavy rains should not result in flooding around here,“ said Clr Clarke.

The banks along the river will also be strengthened.

Clr Clarke said the trees along the stream will not be removed unless there is no other option.

“Those trees which must be removed will be replaced by indigenous trees. They will also plant natural grass. which will encourage bird life to return to the park,” said Clr Clarke.

The project should be completed by December.

“The project was delayed for about three months, as the contractor had to wait for a water licence from the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry (DWAF). Everything is being done in line with the department,” said Clr Clarke.

Labour was recruited from a nearby informal settlement.

“We have an agreement with the contractor to hire local people. Makause was the nearest informal settlement with a high number of unemployment. We had to do something to reduce the unemployment,” she said.