Residents and stakeholders remain hopeful that a long-awaited clean-up of Lonehill Dam will move forward, despite funding hurdles and ongoing infrastructure concerns affecting water levels at the popular community landmark.

Ward 94 councillor David Foley outlined efforts that began late last year to restore the dam’s condition ahead of the festive season.

According to Foley, plans were initiated in mid-December to raise funds for a large-scale clean-up operation of the dam using amphibious harvesters, in partnership with contractors from Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo.

Read more: Lonehill Residents Association reassures community on dam efforts

“Between the Lonehill Residents Association (LRA) and City Parks, we could not reach a consensus, although I had verbal approval from City Parks, but I needed it in writing before proceeding; otherwise, I would have been liable for the costs of the clean-up.”

He said his efforts have since shifted toward broader fundraising discussions that could also benefit Witkoppen Dam.

“I have been communicating with City Parks to start fundraising [on behalf of the community] not only to clean the Lonehill Dam but the Witkoppen Dam as well, but they have said since they have an agreement with the LRA for the Lonehill green areas and dam, the LRA must raise the funds to get the dam cleared.”

Shelly Miller from the association has previously confirmed that the funds raised so far by the community for a clean-up would be utilised.

“We want residents and visitors to understand that their contributions are not being wasted. Yes, we could bring in a big harvester to clear the dam quickly, but that would only treat the symptom. Our goal is to fix the source of the problem [sewage leaks], so that the dam remains healthy for years to come.”

Foley also raised concerns about leakage at the dam wall near a temporary bridge structure, which he described as poorly constructed.

Also read: ‘Weed wars’ rage on at Lonehill Dam as Kariba weed makes a comeback

The leak prevents the dam from maintaining higher water levels, as water escapes once it reaches a certain point. Nadeem Abrahams, an environmentalist from the association, reported the sewage leak to Johannesburg Water a few weeks ago.

He added that the Kariba weed appears to be feeding on the sewage, which may explain its rapid growth in the dam. This observation is supported by Gugu Zondi, an integrated catchment manager from City Parks.

However, Foley maintained that only a detailed water analysis could provide an accurate assessment of the dam’s water quality.

“The amount of sewage coming into the dam has been minimal. Johannesburg Water repairs the sewage leaks very quickly. There is a small one currently coming through the storm channel from Forest Drive, where I have logged a call and asked both the Joburg Water sewage team and JRA to work together to find it. With all the eco tabs that were placed in the dam, the water was very clean.”

Johannesburg Water to date has not responded to our media query despite repeated follow-ups.

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