Local government is attending to the issues in Ferndale Spruit Park.
Representatives of the Department of Environment and Infrastructure Services, and Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo, met with Ward 104 councillor Mike Wood and resident George Veltchev at the park on 23 September.
Wood and Veltchev led the officials through the park, down a stretch opposite Vine and Vale avenues, and pointed out its problems.
These included flooding, primarily caused by silting (a process whereby fine particles travel downstream and block a river), an electric cable running through the river, litter and vagrants burning willow trees.
The officials refused to speak to the media but it was clear that they were strategising ways to restore the park to its former glory.
Veltchev said that he is glad the officials inspected the park, and hopes they will “do something” about the vagrants and litter.
Wood said, “This river is beautiful, a gem in the city. Residents are quick to criticise the city [about problems] but… need to pay attention to how to help look after it. The city responded very quickly to the complaint.”
A complaint by resident Ig Vermaak instigated action by the city.
In an email last month, Vermaak told Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo, “From the time we moved in (2012) the area has drastically deteriorated – to the point where I suspect it will seriously impact on property in the area. Not to mention that it’s unpleasant living here.”
He then discussed rubbish and flooding in the park and neighbouring road. Questions were sent to Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo spokesperson Jenny Moodley and comment is awaited.
Details: Department of Environment and Infrastructure Services 086 056 2874; Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo jcp@jhbcitypark.com or 011 712 6600; Ward 104 councillor Mike Wood 082 853 2174.
-
-
-
-
