GALLERY: Weltevreden Park wetlands public meeting
WELTEVREDEN PARK – Weltevreden Park wetlands and areas connecting to the Klein Juksei River are proposed to have major infrastructure assessments.
A public meeting was held at the Randpark Golf Course on 30 June to discuss the erosion of wetlands in Weltevreden Park and other surrounding areas.
The meeting was chaired by Sam Scott of Envirolution Consulting. It was held to have a platform for members of the public to voice concerns or suggestions with regard to the proposed development of the wetlands. It has become clear to entities such as Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) and Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) that the Klein Jukskei River feeds the wetland areas in Weltevreden Park, Fairland, Northcliff, Kelland and Randpark Ridge, and it needs particular attention. An environmental study will be performed by Envirolution Consulting which will also involve JRA and City Parks.
Senior engineer for JRA, John Nyabane spoke on the engineering aspects of the proposed project. He said, “This is a plan that can take a period of years to integrate … What we need to decide now is ‘What we can do in the meantime’.” Kibito Ntshumaelo, an engineer involved in the project, explained that this is a plan to develop the concept design on how to tackle the issues faced in the wetlands. According to him, they will be looking at erosion protection, storm water drainage, water retention and the energy dispensation system.
Concerns were raised regarding the regular maintenance in the areas such as reeds and debris in the waterway and the water banks. Another concern was the lack of public awareness for the meeting. Honeydew Community Policing Forum public relations officer Jon Rosenberg said, “The meeting was not properly advertised to the public,” although the group had advertised in The Star and put a couple small posters in the area. Public attendance was therefore lacking.”
Residents were encouraged to submit any suggestions, questions or concerns regarding the wetland areas to Envirolution Consulting. They can be addressed to the project manager Marinda le Roux at marinda@envirolution.co.za
The reports are available to be viewed on the Envirolution Consulting website
