Local business owners concerned about the state of their businesses

Florida business owners are worried that their nursery will suffer irreparable damage if the conditions in the area they are situated in, continue to get worse.

Thelma and Averil Botha who owns Flowers, Seeds and Busy Bee’s Nursery explained that their business is being affected by the state of the roads, the reeds that grow next to the road as well as the park that is being inhabited by the homeless.

Averil explained the potholes that cover the street are making it difficult for road users to travel safely in Lockies Lane.

“Aside from the road, the weeds on the side are a concern for our customers,” Thelma added, “because we are afraid someone may be hiding between the reeds, we decided to cut some of it ourselves in an attempt to make our customers feel safer.”

Averil noted the property is also rat-infested, and added that it originates from the park next to their business where the homeless are staying. She said this is due to the water in the park. She continued to say Ward 70 councillor Caleb Finn was made aware of the situation and said they were going to seal up the pump house and seal off the pool.

“As long as there’s water there these people are going to be here. The rats, which are as big as cane rats, run across the fence,” said Averil.

Councillor Finn has not commented by the time of publication. As soon as comment is received from the Johannesburg Road Agency, an update will be given.