Joburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) will spend over R6 million to redevelop both the Gresswold and Weinberg family parks and introduce new exciting features for recreational purposes.
The two parks were approved to be constructed over three financial years, said the spokesperson, Jenny Moodley.
According to Moodley, the first financial year’s work is completed and the second phase will be completed in December.
She said the third financial year’s work can only commence when the budget becomes available soon after July next year – construction for that phase will take six months.
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At Gresswold, Moodley said designated internal paved walkways, a pedestrian sidewalk lane, bicycle sidewalk lane, multipurpose court, free-to-use outdoor gym equipment, a variety of contemporary and modern playground equipment and seating walls are some of the new features that will be introduced.
At the Weinberg in Savoy, designated internal paved walkways, a variety of contemporary and modern playground equipment are currently being done, she said.
“Additional items will be dependent on future budget availability,” said Moodley.
“What is not done by December will be included in the last phase… over the three years, a total of R 6 400 075.16 was approved.”
Asked if these project came as a need, she said: “The City of Joburg has a system in place whereby projects are prioritised according to the needs of the identified community, as well as infrastructural and development plans. JCPZ was allocated funding from the City to develop.”
The projects have yielded approximately 20 jobs for the locals per phase and Moodley said they depend on skills needed. She added that only one SMME was appointed to do the paving.
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Xamhumti General Trading is the contractor on-site and moving forward, she said hard structures and services will be maintained by the entity’s facilities management unit.
“Horticultural maintenance is the responsibility of JCPZ regional depot.”
Ward 74 councillor David Fisher said he is looking forward to the community enjoying the upgraded facilities.
“Open spaces add to the quality of life for residents. It is always great to hear young people playing and enjoying good, healthy and invigorating activities in our parks,” he said.
Details: nmattera@jhbcityparks.com.
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