Fence at CR Swart Dam a necessary security upgrade
The new fence at the CR Swart Park was erected on Ebotse owned property.
The erection of a new fence on the verge of CR Swart Dam has caused a stir among anglers, with some claiming Ebotse Golf and Country Estate is hampering their recreational use of the water body.
In March, the upmarket estate installed a 120m fence to beef up security, thus preventing the public from gaining access to verges along waterfront properties.
In a meeting with the Benoni City Times at the site, estate manager Thasan Moodley explained that, according to Ekurhuleni metro by-laws, fishing is not permitted, and the East Rand Speedboat Club (ERSC) has preferred and functional use of the dam.
“The estate has a 99-year lease with the metro regarding the CR Swart Park.
“As part of the agreement, the estate has undertaken to maintain the park. However, the dam also falls under the ownership of the estate,” said Moodley.
“It is important for us to ensure that the park remains attractive and open for public use.
“It is one of the few remaining public spaces where families can safely enjoy picnics and fun on the water’s edge.
“The decision to erect the fence is in no way intended to alienate anyone from enjoying the amenities, but was purely taken to safeguard our residents, as well as the wildlife and birds that inhabit the area.”
One avid angler, however, is not convinced, claiming that members of the angling community believe the estate will soon make the park and water inaccessible to the general public.
“I have fished in these waters for years, finding quiet spots to teach my kids about the art,” said Andrew Geral.
“These places are now fenced off, and anyone wanting to fish is cramped in one spot. I fear we will soon not be able to enjoy the park. Surely this cannot be legal.”
Kobus du Plessis, the estate’s building and maintenance manager, elaborated by stating that the estate and its security company may not enforce municipal by-laws regarding fishing.
“Should representatives of the metro and EMPD find anyone in contravention, the mandate to enforce the law remains with them,” he said.
Jurie Ferreira, AfriForum’s district co-ordinator: East Rand community structures, confirmed that the public approached them about the new development and the impact it could have on the use of the park.
“We realise the estate is responsible for ensuring the safety and security of its residents. However, we do not agree with parts of the waterfront being made inaccessible,” said Ferreira.
“We would like to invite the management of the estate to an open discussion where possible alternative measures could be considered to the benefit of everyone involved.”
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