Bokkie Park problems will have to wait until there is money

The Bokkie Park in Parkdene is a haven for families and somewhere parents would hope their children can run and play freely and safely.

A recent visit, however, to the park has brought to light some glaring problems, which the Boksburg Advertiser approached the City of Ekurhuleni about.

They have committed to sorting out some of the issues immediately, but the majority of the problems, the city’s spokesperson, Zweli Dlamini, said are at the mercy of ‘financial constraints’ at the moment.

According to the latest budget, the metro has allocated funds for “animal care” and centralised these to an amount of R680 347.

The following facilities will all have to tap into this amount: Alberton Dam, Bokkie Park, Bunny Park, Nigel Game Reserve and Rondebult Bird Sanctuary. “The same applies to all other line items, such as PPE, fuel, maintenance of fleet, etc. Also not that all the building and maintenance repair funds are centralised under ‘building maintenance'”, Dlamini explained.

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Some of the issues asked for comment on and the city’s responses:

1. Lapas that were traditionally hired out are waterlogged and in a poor state – thatch roofs are full of holes, and the smaller lapas, braai areas and benches are inaccessible due to being completely under water.
Due to financial constraints, the maintenance and rehabilitation of the lapas have been delayed. We are unable to provide a specific timeline for the restoration of the lapas or details regarding their hiring.

2. What is the C-Cell container near the goat enclosure used for? It is rusted and in a bad state. Why is it still in the park?
The container was utilised for storage. We acknowledge its current condition is not up to standard and have plans to remove the container.

3. The wooden jungle gym has rusted nails protruding from it.
The city apologises for the reported condition of the jungle gym. The safety of children is of utmost importance to us and the city takes this matter seriously. We will promptly investigate and address the issue to ensure all rusted nails are removed or replaced.

4. Two bridges over the stream near the ostrich enclosure are in a bad state. The one does not have railings.
The city understands the importance of addressing these issues to ensure the safety and enjoyment of park visitors. While we cannot provide a specific timeline for repairs at this moment, be assured that the city is prioritising the allocation of resources for park improvements based on budgetary considerations and priorities.

5. Concrete ‘dustbins’ at these bridges are full of rubbish.
We will address this issue and ensure regular clean-ups take place.

6. The train has been left to go to ruin. It has been vandalised with graffiti and is falling apart. How would anyone be able to graffiti the train? Do people get into the park at night? If so, this is a concern for the animals and other facilities. Despite the broken windows and the state of the inside of the train, it is still fully accessible to children.
While the city is not currently aware of any incidents of people entering the park at night, we take all reports and concerns seriously. Measures will be taken to investigate and enhance security to prevent vandalism and graffiti.

7. The swings at the merry-go-round are rusted and not in use. Should they not be removed?
We will assess the rusted swings and take appropriate action, including potential removal to prioritise visitor safety and enjoyment.

8. The other kiddies ride with the aeroplanes, etc, have rusted chains and structures.
Given the budgetary constraints, we strive to allocate resources effectively to address maintenance issues. While immediate action may be limited, we assure we are aware of the situation and will prioritise necessary repairs or replacements based on available resources.

9. Large parts of the park are waterlogged. There appears to be a drainage canal near the pig enclosure, which is completely overgrown. There are few spots to access a bench or the play equipment due to the water.
We acknowledge that waterlogged areas are caused by the overgrown drainage canal near the pig enclosure and understand the limited accessibility to benches and play equipment due to the water. The department will prioritise maintenance and seek solutions to address the drainage issue and improvement of access to park amenities.

10. Most of the benches are broken.
While budgetary constraints may impact immediate repairs, we are committed to addressing this matter and prioritising maintenance and replacement of the broken benches as resources become available.

11. The sheltering canopy for the ostriches – their only shelter – is waterlogged and the canopy dilapidated.
The city is cognisant of the condition of the equipment at Bokkie Park and acknowledges the need for maintenance and upgrades. Our plans encompass ongoing efforts to improve and enhance the facility. However, note that financial constraints may impact the timeline of the process.

12. There are no warning signs related to water safety anywhere – while all the water is fully accessible to children.
We understand the concern about the absence of water-safety warning signs. While limited funds impact signage availability, we remain committed to prioritising visitor safety. We will explore alternative options and seek funding to address this issue promptly.

13. Broken tree stumps are lying near the banks in some areas – an invitation for children to climb onto these.
We appreciate your concern regarding the broken tree stumps. Ensuring visitor safety, especially for children, is a priority. We will promptly address this issue by removing or securing the broken tree stumps to mitigate risks.

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