Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) has responded to community concerns regarding dangerous trees within the city. They have taken action to address these issues and ensure the safety of residents.
One of the reported concerns involved several large, leaning trees at the intersection of Fawley Avenue and Lothbury Road in Auckland Park. These trees, supported by each other and a fence, posed a risk to the surrounding area.
Jenny Moodley, the spokesperson for JCPZ, has confirmed that the trees are located on a servitude line, and plans are underway to cut back overhanging branches. Work has already commenced, and the project is expected to be completed within the month of July.
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Another significant concern was a massive, old tree situated at the corner of Molesey Avenue and Cookham Road in Auckland Park. It had been reported as a hazard since February 14 last year, with branches falling regularly, and the potential for significant damage to nearby houses, as well as an electricity pole. The tree was successfully removed, eliminating the threat it posed.
Additionally, there remains a sizeable tree trunk at Main Road, Melville, near the intersection of 6th Avenue. This tree trunk, located close to a major road, has been a cause for concern due to the nearby homeless settlement, daily fires, and pedestrians passing by who have to step into the road to pass it.
Melville resident and Co-Chair of the Melville Business Association (MBA), Jovana Korac, voiced that they used their own money to try and get rid of it.
“We had three tree fellers, come and look and say it is too big; community members even tried to cut it themselves, but the wood, being cured to be rock hard from two years of sitting in the sun, snapped two chainsaws. Thus, we are completely reliant on JCPZ to resolve these types of issues.”
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She added that they have been crazy about fixing Melville and hopes to bring people back. “It has got such a bad reputation, and seeing that tree on Main road and the encampment on the way in, does not assist us.”
JCPZ acknowledged the urgency of the situation and has made progress in cutting the stump. However, due to equipment challenges, the remaining work will be completed with the assistance of a grab truck. They assure residents that the job will be finalised as soon as the grab truck becomes available.
Moodley stressed the importance of residents continuing to report any tree-related concerns. “We consolidate and plan requests to ensure efficient resolution. There are instances where tree maintenance may be delayed due to peak season demands. Residents are kindly urged to exercise patience as they systematically address these requests. The safety and well-being of Johannesburg’s residents remain a top priority for us. Through proactive measures and prompt response, we aim to create a safe environment for all residents to enjoy the city’s natural beauty.”
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