Request for lease proposals welcomed

A request for proposals to lease the Malvern tennis courts and clubhouse has been welcomed.

Mr Mike Spadino, the chairperson of the Malvern United Community Forum (MUCF), said he is thrilled the Joburg Property Company (JPC) has finally asked for proposals.

He said the facility, in Fotheringham Park, has deteriorated over the years.

“The facility is in disrepair. The windows are broken, walls are messed and the roof is leaking. The premises was being used illegally as a church. There were constant complaints of noise and crime in this area,” said Mr Spadino.

A few years ago a Malvern resident alleged that the tennis club faced hijacking by a group of people.

The EXPRESS previously published an article in which Ms Nazeema Abrahams, from the Community Women’s Forum in the Cleveland SAPS precinct, complained to the Cleveland SAPS about the crime emanating from the park.

She requested more visibility in the park and close to the tennis club.

According to Ms Abrahams, criminals hide behind a wall at the tennis club.

Last week Mr Spadino said, “Because of the lack of constant activity at the premises, crime is increasing. Hopefully the JPC will award a lease to people who want to uplift the community. Hopefully the community will use this opportunity to put forward great proposals which can benefit the area.

“I am aware that a few community members are compiling proposals, which include using the premises as a skills training centre and for sport. We need to be told who and what is being considered before the lease is awarded to prevent further deterioration of the facility,” said Mr Spadino.

He said the premises is perfect for sport activities, literacy classes and other educational and recreational activities that are lacking in Malvern.

There are several other council-owned facilities that are up for lease.

Local facilities include the old Jewish Guild Bowling Club and the Yeoville Tennis Club. The old Jewish Bowling Club has not had a lessee for years and as a result, the building has deteriorated.

After the Jewish Guild stopped operating at these premises, the building was vandalised and the memorabilia left behind was either stolen or vandalised.

The Cyrildene Bowling Club also suffered tremendous damage over the years. However, it was also recently leased. Ms Lola Verlaque, from Edenvale, was awarded the lease.

Ms Verlaque said she and her family hope to provide the community with a venue where people can meet, relax and adopt a healthier lifestyle.