Security cameras to be installed in Ballito parks
KDM takes over the project to address illegal dumping and vandalism in Zen, Townsend, and Hilary Trim Parks following Ballito Neighbourhood Watch efforts.
The KwaDukuza Municipality (KDM) has confirmed that it will install live-feed security cameras in Zen, Townsend and Hilary Trim Parks in Ballito.
This decision comes after the Ballito Neighbourhood Watch (BNW) raised concerns about the deteriorating state of these parks due to illegal dumping, squatting, and other anti-social issues.
Just this weekend Townsend Park was vandalised by motorists doing donuts and tearing up the grass. Vehicles are not allowed inside municipal parks without permission.
According to BNW chairman Morné Steffens, the organisation has repeatedly requested permission to fund and monitor cameras in these parks since 2019, but their efforts were initially rejected.
“We made another attempt last year, but it was again rejected,” said Steffens.
Before KDM took over the project, the BNW had already secured a volunteer living near Zen Park who offered to install cameras on their property, with plans for the live monitoring to be handled by two private security companies currently managing the Ballito and Salt Rock Neighbourhood Watch ANPR cameras.
However, KDM spokesperson Sifiso Zulu said the matter was brought before the relevant municipal portfolio committee for reconsideration, and the municipality has now appointed a service provider to install cameras in the identified areas.
“Members of the portfolio committee appreciate the value of partnerships with community-based organisations and civil society generally. However, in this instance, the committee felt that the properties in question belong to the municipality and should be monitored by the municipality,” said Zulu.
“Council has appointed a service provider, as part of its installation of cameras across the municipality to monitor illegal activities.”
It is still unclear how long the installation process will take or who will monitor the cameras on behalf of KDM.
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