Freedom Day was marked by the official relaunch of the rejuvenated McPhail Park, sandwiched between Smith and Oldcare streets. Like Coronation Park, thousands of rands have been spent on fencing off the area and improving amenities such as toilets, etc.
Speaking at the opening, Mayor Mdluli said ‘the whole community, and especially young people, will benefit from the park, as it is a recreational area that adds value to the town’.
However, as in his address at the opening of Coronation Park on Easter Saturday, Mayor Mdluli had stern words for those who intend using McPhail Park for ‘rowdy parties’. “We cannot tolerate littering and loud noise, and a notice board is up at the park to warn those who do not obey the rules. Security guards will also patrol the park to make sure it is a safe place for everyone.”
He thanked Tourism Dundee, whose chairman Naresh Gopie was at the opening, and the Endumeni Residents’ Association for the big role they played in ensuring that parks are places of hope instead of places of horror. Deputy Mayor Nkosi also gave a short speech, thanking all the councillors, the mayor and everybody who contributed towards the great day that was enjoyed by all who attended.
The deputy mayor hopes that all the community and the youth will make good use of the parks in the Endumeni area. Swings, trampolines, a chess board and other equipment will also be installed. There was some humour too when Mayor Mdluli addressed some of the children bused in for the occasion.
When he asked them ‘what is a mayor?’, some of the children replied ‘the lady in charge’. They were quite surprised to discover that the mayor here is a man!
Mayor Sduduzo Mdluli officially opens McPhail Park watched by Tourism Dundee chairperson Naresh Gopie and Deputy Mayor Nkosi.
