A petition requesting the demolition of the ruins that were once the Brenthurst tennis club is gaining momentum.
At the time of publication, the online document had over 500 signatures.
The petition was started by Clean Brakpan. The group holds regular clean-ups in the park where the derelict club is located.
“We, the members of Clean Brakpan, along with other concerned citizens, witness the impact of dilapidated structures in our community every day,” the petition reads.
“A clear example is the once-vibrant public tennis courts, now a crumbled site harbouring crime and drug activities.
“Once a place of enjoyment, these courts are now dangerous eyesores that affect our quality of life in Brenthurst.
“According to local law enforcement data, crime levels have seen a surge in areas near these run-down courts, with drug-related offences, in particular, showing a substantial increase.”
Lisa Jordaan and Kim van Zyl from Clean Brakpan met with the Brakpan Herald at the former sports facility on Tuesday morning.
Jordaan reiterated that the site is a criminal hub and explained Clean Brakpan is asking for permission to demolish the crumbling remains of the club, which includes some walling and a gutted shell of a building.
“It is dangerous for children who can come in here and get hurt,” she said.
Plans also include removing some of the smaller trees and levelling the ground.
“Then residents can enjoy the place,” she said, adding that the space could be better utilised as a dog park, picnic spot or a recreational area for families with playground equipment for children.
Clean Brakpan believes the state of the club stands as a bleak reminder of neglect and poor management of community resources.
“It is essential for the well-being of our community to take action regarding this issue urgently,” the petition states.
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“It is not merely about beautifying the neighbourhood for aesthetic purposes. This is a significant step towards eliminating crime hotspots, enhancing community safety, and creating opportunities for positive community building.”
In addition, Clean Brakpan will raise the funds needed to get this property demolished at no cost to the City of Ekurhuleni.
The group is merely seeking council’s approval to demolish the eyesore. Clean Brakpan is of the opinion that renewing these spaces can restore a sense of pride and security in the community.
They have appealed to the whole of Brakpan to come together, make their voices heard, and seek changes that will transform the community back into a safe and thriving environment for all.
Jordaan thanked those who signed the petition. She added that Clr Riaan Van Zyl will submit the petition to council on the group’s behalf this week.
It will then go through council’s processes and Clean Brakpan is hoping that in the next few months they will be given the green light to rid Brakpan of this “crime nest”.
The online petition can be signed at https://www.change.org/p/demolish-neglected-crime-ridden-tennis-courts-in-brenthurst-brakpan-south-africa
Clean Brakpan is also willing to assist with petitions from other groups.
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