Save Sonneglans’ greenbelt before it’s too late
SONNEGLANS – A resident shares her disappointment in the lack of upkeep that goes into the maintenance of greenbelts in the community.
For many residents, what draws them to a neighbourhood is its natural beauty. Most communities have open landmarks that play an integral role in making that area special.
Pam Goemans is one such resident who fell in love with her home three years ago because she had the pleasure to look out her window every morning and gaze at the beautiful greenbelt.
This greenbelt is found along Nyala Road in Sonneglans.
“It was absolutely beautiful! In a day you would see all kinds of different lovely birds,” she said.
Sadly, as time has gone by what drew her to the community is now what makes it less special. Goemans explained that though she is grateful for the work of City Parks and Zoo, their lack of continuity would frustrate her.
“The reeds would grow very tall and I would write to City Parks and although they would come and cut them, they never removed the cut stalks,” she said.
She explained that Nyala Road is notorious for its flooding and it was only after two cars were seriously damaged that action was taken to divert the stormwater.
“Officials then came out and dug up piles of slime and sand and just dumped it onto the banks over the reeds,” said Goemans. She said that their park was once so beautiful and now it has just turned into a dumpsite.
“Lots of rubbish collects here and it looks disgusting; it is also known as a hiding place for robbers who jump out and grab handbags and cellphones form many people,” claimed Goemans.
Ward 101 councillor Dalu Cele said he could not recall prior complaints about the land from other residents. He explained that should residents see this accumulation of reeds and slime they should report it to City Parks and Zoo to have it removed.
Cele said that when it comes to ensuring the beauty of a greenbelt it is done by City Parks and Zoo.
“As they are the entity of the City responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of open spaces, if there are any issues that the residents come across, they should report it to City Parks and Zoo,” said Cele.
Cele suggested that residents who face such issues should consider working together to take an interest in their open spaces such as organising clean-up days.
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Details: City Parks and Zoo, 0860 562 874, 011 712 6600 or via email jcp@cityparks.com
