If everyone does their bit to help, Alberts Farm might well be entirely fenced within a few months.
This will help rid the massive park of people currently ignoring bylaws and possibly make it safer for families and outdoor-enthusiasts who frequent the park.
There was a second public meeting about dealing with displaced people in Alberts Farm.
At the first meeting, residents were not keen to support the SkeemSaam project that helps lift waste recyclers out of their current situation, which is living in the park and sorting waste to survive. The SkeemSaam project has been successfully implemented in areas such as Melrose and Parkmore.
Sandton Chronicle recently reported that waste collectors and residents of these upmarket suburbs have established a more harmonious relationship thanks to this community project committed to the upliftment of urban waste miners.
Founder Lisa Lowenthal told the publication that in exchange for workshops on hygiene and money management, the men keep parks clean and assist with security.
At the second meeting on 18 October, however, there was a more positive attitude towards SkeemSaam, although fencing Alberts Farm was clearly still the priority, and residents were convinced this could be a solution to crime and displaced persons.
After consulting with a few service providers, the Friends of Alberts Farm, chaired by Julie Gouws, found a company that would be able to install the 2,6km fence. Including the cost of gates and other necessities, R1,5 million is what is needed.
This amount would have to come entirely from residents and businesses.
“There will be four vehicle entry points and a few pedestrian gates that will be locked after hours. There will be space large enough for animals to escape fires,” Gouws said.
Erecting the fence will also create temporary employment, hopefully for the displaced people who currently live there. This way they could also be checked for criminal record and be given proof of the skill they have learned for future reference.
The entire fence will also be electrified and switched to a lower voltage during the day.
The local security company, SCP security, is also on board.
Director Clive Maher said the company will monitor the park to help keep it safe. They will also lock and unlock the gates every day.
The Friends of Alberts Farm need volunteers to help with projects that could generate funds for the fence. If you would like to get involved, contact Gouws on 079 898 2845.
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