Voice of the voter: Calls for Horwood’s Farm Skatepark to be maintained

Local skaters have raised concerns about the deterioration of Horwood’s Farm Skatepark.

The skatepark’s surface has visible cracks and signs of neglect.

One of the skaters’ concerns is that the lack of maintenance could pose significant risks to the safety and well-being of those using the facility.

A regular skater at the park, Ray, told Bedfordview Edenvale News they love the skatepark, but the ground surface urgently needs to be maintained.

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“The cement is washing away, and steel and cracks are quite visible.

“What is worrying is that this park has operated for less than four years but already needs attention. It shows that the developers did not do quality work,” said Ray.

Another concern is a skateboard getting stuck between the cracks.

Skaters suggest the park be treated as an ongoing project to prevent serious injuries because they said some parts of the park are “falling apart.”

The CoE’s spokesperson, Zweli Dlamini, said the skatepark is swept regularly to ensure safety and cleanliness.

“The current maintenance schedule for Horwood’s Farm includes weekly inspections to ensure safety and cleanliness, trash removal and seasonal landscaping around the area to maintain its aesthetic and functional quality,” said Dlamini.

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“The city is aware of the concerns regarding the skatepark’s surface because it came out of the inspections done.

“The issues are under review to promptly assess the necessary steps for improvement,” he added.

According to Damini, the aim is to repair the skatepark’s surface and improve its functionality and safety.

He said the city takes maintenance seriously. They always encourage maintenance plans from departments so that proper and relevant work gets done.