It’s been almost four years since Jan Smuts Park was closed to the public, leaving many residents questioning whether the park will ever reopen.
According to the City of Ekurhuleni, the reopening is on the horizon and residents will soon be able to enjoy the park and its new facilities.
The park has been closed since November 2017 to allow for upgrades and the clearing of water hyacinth.
“The upgrades have been completed and the City has just started with the last phase of clearing the water hyacinth,” said City spokesperson Zweli Dlamini.
“The park will be ready for opening to the public as soon as the work has been completed.”
Dlamini explained the upgrade consists of new play equipment, a parking area, ablution facilities, braai areas and walking trails.
“However, no fishing is permitted at the Brakpan Dam,” he stated.
“Meanwhile, water hyacinth is a persistent problem due to the way the plant spreads. This will require ongoing monitoring and intervention, depending on the condition of the dam.
“Mechanical removal and herbicide spraying will be implemented as and when required to keep the hyacinth cover under control.”
Brandon Pretorius, DA councillor for Ward 97, told the Herald he welcomes the efforts made by the municipality.
“The closing of the park was a huge disappointment for the community of Brakpan and the delayed opening due to the hyacinth infestation is a huge frustration,” he said.
“Millions have already been spent to upgrade the park and try and clear the dam of the invasive species and to see that the City is seemingly making progress does make one believe that there is light at the end of the tunnel.”
He added that he has submitted formal written questions to the council regarding the future of the dam and the estimated reopening date, as well as questions pertaining to the upkeep of the park and the plan of action going forward to ensure that the dam stays clear of hyacinth or is kept under control.
“There are still numerous concerns with regards to the situation at the dam but for the moment we should feel positive about the progress made,” he said.
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