After residents reported concerns about cars illegally parking inside the Noordwyk Park in Midrand, Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JPCZ) has since fenced off the park.

A 60m palisade fence and a gate with a motor were installed, with the hope of deterring motorists from parking inside the park.

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JPCZ regional manager in Region A, Dr Joseph Ndou, said residents had requested the installation of a fence. He added that illegal parking inside the park was rife on weekends.

“This made it difficult for other park users to utilise the park, and there were claims of illegal activities happening inside the park.

We then had to look at the operational budget in this financial year, which started on July 1, to see if we could install the palisade fencing. This was done in accordance with the needs of the community because they requested that we include pedestrian and motor gates,” said Ndou.

He pleaded with members of the community to look after the newly installed fence against theft and vandalism.

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“We have seen a high number of palisade panels being stolen. We hope that closing the open portion will encourage families to come and utilise the park, as there won’t be car disturbance now.”

Resident Otto Ramokoka said, “We need this park to be used by residents safely and responsibly. I would like to thank Dr Ndou and the City Parks team for hearing our outcry and ensuring that it is attended to.”

He urged residents to report anything suspicious happening at the park and report it to the relevant authorities, because it was every resident’s responsibility.

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