The fact that public parks have been closed since the start of the lockdown has been a thorn in the side of many residents; especially those with children and pets.
While walking the street for exercise was permitted under the initial Level 3 restrictions, parks were still something that many people needed.
Those with small homes wanted to be able to take their children for walks without having to go into the busy streets; the same with pet owners and those who just enjoy the scenery of a park.
When he addressed the nation on 12 July, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that the national state of disaster would be extended to 15 August and the country would remain in Alert Level 3, but with a few changes.
One of the changes was that residents are now allowed to visit their local parks for exercise – not for social gatherings. Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) said they will ensure that parks are opened by Wednesday, 15 July. As for nature reserves, such as Kloofendal, the City of Johannesburg (CoJ) said that these will be opened on 1 August to allow for a phased-in approach due to limited resources.
Even though the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens will open on 1 August, there has been no confirmation as yet to whether the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden will do the same. Our local botanical garden is not City property, but is being managed by the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI).
The Walter Sisulu Botanical Garden needs to wait for directions from the Minister of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries as to when it can open, because it is governed by the state. Until such direction is received, the Garden will remain closed. The Record will post an update as soon as more information is received.
The announcement that parks would reopen was welcomed by CoJ, especially councillor Margaret Arnolds, MMC for Community Development.Councillor Arnolds has, however, expressed her cautionary warnings to residents saying, “Common sense must prevail. If you are feeling unwell – self-isolate. If there are too many users in the park, then protect yourself and your loved ones by staying safely at home.”
With her warning, councillor Arnolds shared 10 mandatory requirements for anyone wishing to visit one of the City’s parks.
- Wearing a mask in a public space at all times is compulsory
- Practice social distancing – stay a minimum of 3 metres apart
- The park is open for exercise – picnics, events, or gatherings are strictly prohibited
- Ensure that your hands are washed and sanitized before entering a City Parks facility. Park users are urged to carry their own sanitizer
- Exercise only with persons from within your household. Groups are limited to a maximum of five people
- Refrain from using the ablution facilities, sitting on the benches, and using the playgrounds
- Remind children that the use of the gym and play equipment is prohibited
- Take all disposables home, including empty bottles and paper cups. Refrain from depositing refuse in park bins
- Leave all valuables at home to avoid opportunistic crime
- Abide by the public open spaces by-laws that are in place
