Ward 93 councillor Vino Reddy is calling for solutions to recycling and pollution concerns along Paulshof Spruit Park.

To discuss environmental concerns along the spruit, he met with representatives from Henley Business School as the recycling activities happen at their back gate near the river. Waste recyclers living near the bridge collect paper, plastics and packaging, which are sorted into bags and collected weekly on Thursdays.

Read more: Debris and pollution spark concern in Paulshof Spruit Park

However, Reddy said the issue now is that materials are placed out several days before collection.

“They used to prepare their paper, plastics and packaging for collection on Thursdays, but now the bags are starting to appear from Sunday. This means they stand in the open for several days and are exposed to the elements, which can lead to environmental pollution.”

Reddy has called on the City of Johannesburg to help formalise recycling activities and create designated spaces where recyclers can safely sort materials.

“I’m calling on the city to help formalise communities like these and create spaces where they can sort their refuse collections safely and equitably, without dumping waste around them or burning it and creating toxic smoke.” While discussions with Henley Business School are underway to find solutions, Reddy urged recyclers to only place their materials out the day before collection.

Also read: Church leaders responds to concerns over ritual gatherings at Paulshof Spruit

Reddy added that much of the debris seen at the bridge is washed downstream during heavy rains, while some pollution along the riverbanks has been linked to activities by visitors who leave waste behind.

Jacques le Roux, chief operating officer of Henley Business School, said the situation also affects the institution and its international visitors. “We are an international business school, and we have international students visiting us, as well as senior academics from the UK.

@caxtonjoburgnorth Ward 93 councillor Vino Reddy explains the need for sustainable solutions to recycling and pollution along Paulshof Spruit Park while supporting local waste recyclers. Video: Ayanda Ntshingila #Localnews #caxtonlocalmedia #johannesburg #Communitynews #SA #Fourways #2026 #Servicedelivery ♬ original sound Caxton Joburg North

“People visit the campus and see what is happening nearby, and this should not create the impression that this is typical in South Africa.” Le Roux added that while the school supports recycling as an entrepreneurial activity, it should take place in appropriate locations.

Both the councillor and the institution said they hope to work with the city and the community to find solutions that protect the river environment while supporting those who rely on recycling for income.

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