A voice for the Parkmore community
SANDTON – Kate Wardle, the deputy chairperson of the Parkmore Community Association has decided to express her views on the George Lea Park crisis.
It would appear that many residents have strong views on George Lea North Park.
After reading the Sandton Chronicle article, Tough Life in the Shadows, Kate Wardle, the deputy chairperson of the Parkmore Community Association, has put together key points.
Wardle wants to restore the park to its former glory. “We need to make our communities safe, clean and functioning. For this to happen, bylaws need to be enforced. We want to restore George Lea to a functioning sport and recreation centre that will unite people from every age group, culture, and socio-economic background. It can serve as a cornerstone for social inclusion,” said Wardle.
She said that residents do sympathise with the people living in the park. “However, there are other options available to them in terms of the City providing alternative accommodation.
“Often it is not a lack of other options, but a lack of will to take them up. Many squatters in George Lea are not homeless in the traditional sense of the word. Many have homes in townships and work in Sandton. They live from Monday to Friday in the park and go home on weekends. Others are waste recyclers living here illegally.”
Wardle stressed the health-related issues associated with living in the park. In the aforementioned article, it was explained that the squatters use the river as a toilet and therefore cannot wash in it.
“Having people living informally in the park presents a number of health and environmental problems to surrounding communities. From burning plastic contaminating the air, to litter contaminating the soil and waterways, the impact of environmental degradation in George Lea has a ripple effect along the Spruit,” she stressed.
Wardle and community members have been actively involved in cleaning the area. Jenny Moodley, spokesperson for City Parks, said that she is thankful to her for her efforts.
Wardle said, “Let’s not forget that George Lea is a sport and recreation centre. Nelson Mandela said sport has the power to unite people in a way that little else can. Sport contributes to community identity, serving as a focal point for engagement, pride, and achievement.
“We have to stop being narrow-minded in our approach and look at the broader benefits of rehabilitating George Lea Park and many other public spaces. Creating safe, clean, functioning public spaces is essential to bring communities together.”
Read more:
George Lea squatters spark opinions
Community outrage at squatter camp in George Lea
