Recreation centre’s roof destroyed by storm
Stormy weather causes damage to the recreational centre and surrounding areas in Discovery.
The Discovery Recreation Centre was severely damaged after a storm on February 18.
After a four-year battle to reopen the facility after residents protested that they were denied access to it, the City of Johannesburg (CoJ) ultimately reopened it in 2022. Sadly a recent severe hailstorm blew off the roof causing the tree next to the exit to collapse on the road and parts of the tin roof landing in a resident’s yard.
The Roodepoort Record spoke to Anne Visser, who stays opposite the centre after witnessing several parts of the roof landing in her yard.
• Also read: Storm leaves residents roofless
“I heard thunder sounds around 18:15. When the rain settled, I went outside and to my surprise, as I kept walking further, I saw parts of the tin roof in my yard,” says Visser.
• Also read: Vital veggie garden smashed by storm
Besides commemorating milestones for residents, the centre was used for ballet classes, gym, art exhibitions, and educational and cultural events.
• Also read: Gigantic tree destroys house
Visser, who shared moments such as her wedding reception, her parents’ anniversary and her desire to celebrate her upcoming 70th birthday, is disappointed at the lack of communication from CoJ. She stated that she spoke to the recreation officer Loziwe Ncube who had informed her that the centre was undergoing renovations.
The Record made contact with the operations manager of CoJ, Joyce Jiyane, and is currently awaiting her response.
