The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Ekurhuleni has welcomed the decision, as do many Springsites, who used to enjoy taking their children and grandchildren to the Bunny Park for an inexpensive, fun day out.
The park will be closed with immediate effect while the Ekurhuleni Parks Department conducts an assessment of the situation, with particular focus on the condition of the animals, and then provide a full report in due course.
This comes after months of reports from community members regarding the condition of the rabbits, some of which have reportedly been suffering from starvation and neglect.
According to Clr Fortune Mahano from the DA, the situation reached crisis point and they attended a meeting at the parks department with Ekurhuleni officials and interested groups.
“As a popular source of entertainment for many families, it is imperative that the metro maintains the park’s upkeep and ensures that the well-being of the animals is a priority at all times,” says Mahano.
“We are concerned that the recent negative reports will deter the many other visitors who come from far and wide to bring their loved ones to the park to enjoy the animals, we need to restore the public’s confidence that all is well at the Bunny Park,” Mahano concludes.
Springsites were also affected by the news:
- Lisa James was saddened by the news that the bunny park is closed.
- Andre Burger: “I hope it’s for upgrades.”
- Marius Malan: “Wonder wie is in beheer? So paar jaar terug was dit nogal ‘n lekker plek om as family uit te gaan vir die dag.”
- Ansie van Tonder: “Dit is beter. Daar moet na die diere gekyk word. Daar is baie van die diere wat sleg lyk.”
- Bronwyn Swarts: “I thought it was terrible! I saw bunnies with sores and some of their noses were in a terrible condition.”
- John Sharman: “Often take grandchildren there. It’s dilapidated but work is going on. Rabbits are prone to diseases. Surprised the entrance is still free.”
