The Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) focus group session with community representatives and property owners on January 30 was a success.
The meeting’s aim was to get input from smaller groups of residents, users, property owners, educational and non-profit institutions as to the future vision and development of the Inner City Eastern Gateway.
A number of issues were discussed in the meeting, including transportation, health and educational facilities.
Residents expressed concern about the lack of health facilities in Kensington, Bertrams, Troyville and other surrounding areas.
Residents said they depend on one clinic, the Bez Valley Clinic.
Residents also expressed concern about safety, especially those who make use of public transport and those who cycle or walk to work.
“We are encouraged to live healthy lifestyles by walking or cycling to work. We are also encouraged to make use of public transport but our roads are not cycling-friendly. There are no cycle lanes and no pavements for pedestrians,” said one resident.
Residents said services like the Rea Vaya Bus is not benefiting them.
Johannesburg Development Agency planning manager, Ms Jasmeen Dinath, said the meeting was the ideal platform to share information and obtain a better understanding of the residents’ needs and the area itself.
“This will not be the last meeting. These meetings will be an ongoing process and residents need to attend. By attending, they can gather all the information from relevant parties before projects are finalised. It also helps residents understand what needs to be prioritised when projects are ready for implementation,” said Ms Dinath.
The meeting was attended by Clr Carlos da Rocha for ward 66, Clr Mike Spadino for ward 118 and I love Kensington Association chairperson, Mr Tony de Munnik.
