With the unveiling of an improved recreational park facility in Jeppestown, the cries of inner city residents have finally been heard, following years of petitioning.
This is according to Ward 61 and 62 PR Clr Bongani Nkwanyana, who said the facility had not undergone a revamp of any kind since being erected in 1996.
The facility has also undergone a name change.
Previously known as Jeppe Park, it is has now been named Gillfilon Park, and primarily caters for residents in Jeppestown, including Jeppe Men’s Hostel, and the surrounding areas of Maboneng and Troyeville.
Nkwanyana said the park has been fitted with equipment which has turned it into a sports facility that can be utilised more extensively.
“There have been a number of developments in and around the area and the park kept aging and deteriorating with time. We realised there was a huge infrastructure and service delivery backlog.
“The Diphetogo programme was established to address backlogs,” said Nkwanyana.
Nkwanyana said safety was the main focus during the revamp process.
He highlighted road safety as a chief consideration during upgrades on the park.
“Johannesburg Roads Agency helped to install speed humps in order to calm the traffic in the streets that are based around the park.
“On May 24, council passed the 2018/19 budget which will advance the vision of the Diphetogo programme that aims to change the lives of Joburg residents.
“Through the Diphetogo programme, there will be reprioritising of funding towards the needs of residents.
“The budget continues to be allocated accordingly to informal settlement upgrading, title deed provision, RDP social housing projects and service delivery, among other things.”
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