THE escalating crime in and around the Lahee Park is believed to be the main reason people are choosing to occupy the park at the corner of Kings and Glenugie Roads.
The overcrowding, which has been going on for a few months, has raised many questions by the residents as it was once a peaceful open ground.
ALSO READ: Residents are fed-up with Lahee Park neglect
Residents who have complained about the overcrowding said that the place has been turned into partying area and they are concerned about the litter that is left behind after the celebrations.
Ward 18 councillor, Melanie Brauteseth, said the issue of the park has been on the CPF agenda for a couple of months now.
“I have spoken to the head of parks and the local manager to inspect the area for themselves regarding the overcrowding and the parties that are held in that park on the weekends especially on Friday afternoon.”
Brauteseth said people are braaing, drinking alcohol, littering and urinating there. “Metro police have been asked to monitor the area on a regular basis but they cannot be there all the time and one can not keep watch on all the people that occupy that area,” she said.
The Highway Mail spoke to several people relaxing in the park.
Jabulani Zondo (Pinetown) – As a person who enjoys his drink once in a while, relaxing in this park saves me money. It is better than drinking while chilling at a bar, that is expensive and you end up spending too much money. The mood here is nice, there is fresh air and it is stress free.
Fikile Mthethwa (Clermont) – We used to chill at Lahee Park but the crime here is escalating so we do not feel safe anymore. The view here is nice, everything is close, the shops and transport. When we need to refill, we just go across the road.
Fafa Langa (Hammarsdale) – My friends and I have travelled all the way from Hammarsdale to relax and have fun in the park. We chose this park because it is a community area. No one disturbs us and we feel very safe as every few minutes we see a police car driving past.
Ntombi Sijobo (Ntshongweni) – We have chosen this place because there is no entrance fee. It is a nice open place. We enjoy sitting here, there is no trouble.
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