Community called to comment on the future of the Fairland Garden Site

Residents in and around Fairland who have been affected by the local garden site will soon have the chance to voice their concerns about the Pikitup site.

In recent years, the site has been home to various issues and contributing to more issues in the adjacent Market Street Park.

Ward 98 councillor Beverley Jacobs stated that the rapid deterioration of the surrounding area due to recycling, drug trading, drinking, harassment and attacks on residents and business owners has been a thorn in the side of residents.

Jacobs explained, “The park facility is being turned into a dump as a result of the park dwellers taking what was meant for the dumpsite from residents and storing it in the park and on the verges. These are the concerns that have been laid squarely at the door of the Fairland Garden Site. These concerns have not only been brought to me, but I have been a first-hand witness to the above and to the absolute lawlessness around this facility.”

The City will be meeting with residents in the near future to discuss a potential upgrade of the facility, but many residents are up in arms, stating they want the facility moved. This will have repercussions such as increased illegal dumping in the area.

Jacobs said, “The site provides a valuable service to Ward 98. Moving the site is an option, but with very scarce land resources available within Ward 98, the loss of a valuable service could become a reality for the ward.

“This would lead to further reasons for illegal dumping. The cost implications of moving the site would also far outweigh the current cost of upgrading the existing infrastructure.”

Jacobs did say she would commit herself to represent the voice of the community and ensure that their concerns are taken up with the entities involved. Additionally, if the upgrade is approved, she would be responsible for oversight of the project.

Fairland police have confirmed that criminal activity has been reported around the garden site including the stabbing of a displaced person living there. Jacobs has urged the community of Fairland to be on standby to attend the all-important meeting which will include Pikitup and City officials.

A date and venue for the meeting will be announced soon but is expected to take place after February 15.

Jacobs concluded, “Residents are urged to attend the meeting in order to get an understanding on how the upgrades may add value to the ward and based on the presentation, raise concerns, make suggestions and give input to the process.

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