Pinetown resident appeals for Japanese Garden to be reopened

DESPITE the easing of lockdown regulations, the popular Japanese Garden remains closed to the public.

The park, situated in Bartlett Road, Pinetown, consists of a children’s playground, a grass lawn, walkways, a small stream and a variety of different plants.

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Prior to lockdown, the garden was frequented by local families and friends wanting to enjoy a picnic and a Sunday afternoon of rest and relaxation.

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Concerned resident, Neil Pearce said many people visit the park for recreational activities and with it being closed, there is not much people can do in a nice set up without using money.

According to Pearce, all the parks are supposed to be opened by now. “People spent many months indoors, they do need fresh air,” he said.  

“People come here for various reasons, some come here to relax, others to exercise,” said Pearce.

The closure of the park has resulted in people sitting on the verges outside the park.

“There is litter all around the park,” he said.

Pearce pleaded with the municipality to open the park.

“There is plenty of space in this park and I doubt the City should be worried about overcrowding. However, if that is the case, they can enforce regulations.”

When asked about the importance of parks, Pearce said, “Parks provide people of different cultures with a sense of community and opportunity for those differing in ethnic backgrounds to interact. It’s good places for children and contributes to a high quality of life. It helps reduce alienation, loneliness, and anti-social behaviours. It also helps create opportunities for community involvement, and shared management and ownership of resources.”

Attempts to obtain a comment from the eThekwini Municipality proved futile at the time of going to print.

Caxton Local Media Covid-19 reporting