Wollaston Labuschagne (ward councillor) was approached by the City of Ekurhuleni’s (CoE) parks department with regards to a budget that was made available for the development of a public park. This budget is specifically dedicated to development and cannot be used for other maintenance purposes.

According to Labuschagne the community of Ferryvale could widely benefit from this unique park. Similar parks have been built in Alrapark and Mckenzieville.

“I believe that all South Africans should participate in outdoor activities, especially children. The planned park is the ideal opportunity for the residents of Ferryvale to spend time outside with their children. It will include public exercise facilities, seating and a modern children’s play area. No alcohol will be allowed in the park and braai facilities are not planned at all,” Labuschagne added.

He also said that he received both positive and negative feedback from the community. He added that the residents need not worry about visitors from other towns in the City of Ekurhuleni (CoE), as most townships and suburbs already have public parks.

“I would personally prefer to see a modern and unique outdoor park in the area rather than low cost housing on the same piece of ground. I want to urge residents not to be misled by individuals who share false information. The open piece of ground is deemed as ‘public open space’ and was always reserved for future development. Maintenance of the new park will be the resposibility of the CoE’s parks department and will be added to their list,” Labuschagne concluded.

Residents with any concerns about the planned park can e-mail Labuschagne directly on Wollaston.Labuschagne@ekurhuleni.gov.za for more information.