Robust dialogue brings about more inclusive solution to the future of Hamilton Park
CRAIGHALL PARK – It was decided that a committee of residents with diverse views and skill sets needs to be formed.
The heated meeting saw strong divisions on issues of inclusion, security, homelessness and access to the park.
However, by the end of the meeting, many people felt happier that open, inclusive discussions were now taking place to improve the park.
The meeting was opened by Craighall Park resident Joss Du Trevou, who had formed a committee of 28 residents as early as 2015 to endeavour to adopt the park and have it fenced off. An amount of R42 000 had been raised by interested parties to fund the fencing project which began without permission from City Parks in December last year. A portion of the fence was erected but this was brought to a halt after residents noticed the developments.
During his presentation of how events unfolded, it became clear that many residents disagreed with the manner in which Du Trevou and his committee had gone forward with the fencing project.
Ward 117 councillor Tim Truluck, who chaired the meeting, said,
“We cannot vote now [regarding the installation of the fence]. This process had a fatal flaw – it was done without proper consultation. We need to vote after there has been enough dialogue.”
Gregor Heidemann, who initially raised his concerns about the fence in the article Dispute over park fence, Week ending 21 December, said the trust of residents had been broken when the fence was being installed illegally. He acknowledged that the meeting was a better way forward for all residents.
Community police forum member Glyn Demmer pointed out the security concerns regarding displaced people in the park as well as the use of the park as a convenient escape route at night for criminals. “I sincerely believe that if we get it right to close the park at night, it will contribute to a reduction in crime,” said Demmer.
Resident Chris Lund said new solutions for displaced people needed to be found. “Homelessness is growing and people need to find places to stay. We need a change of heart on this issue. We need to be more inclusive. Building higher walls won’t fix the problem.”
It was decided that a new committee needs to be formed, bringing together all residents who wish to participate to provide a way forward.
Du Trevou concluded the meeting by apologising for his past mistakes and urging community members to work together with their skills, instead of complaining, to make the park more enjoyable for all.
“Whilst the debate was at times heated, we believe that the meeting went a long way to bridge the divide between the residents of Parkhurst and Craighall Park, and now provides us with a comprehensive list of concerned residents which will allow us to better communicate our park initiatives in future,” said Du Trevou.
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Residents disagree over the erection of a fence across the Parkhurst side of the Hamilton Park
