#Letter: Preserve our precious public open spaces

Ken Lever of Ballito writes:

Letter writer Tony Kruger (Courier 10/02/23) is correct – there needs to be more meaningful communication between groups and organisations, as well as individuals.

But communication cuts both ways. There has been precious little communication, discussion, or even acknowledgement from our municipality who initiated this whole unsatisfactory fiasco (Townsend Park land sale).

There was absolutely no consultation with the greater Ballito or Dolphin Coast community, residents or ratepayers before the KwaDukuza municipality council resolved in 2019 to sell the public open space to a private organisation not based or functioning locally.

The fact that it was for a place of worship is coincidental – it could have just as easily been for flats, shops or offices.

The area in question at the south end of the park is public open space accessible to all citizens and is owned by all people of the area and not by the municipality.

If Mr Kruger had been following public meetings and correspondence, including the Courier, he would know that the Townsend family donated part of their farm in 1962 to the people of Ballitoville for a park, which was held in trust by the government of the day, then transferred to the Ballito TMB and finally to KDM – but always in trust.

It is also relevant to Mr Kruger’s concern to note that the Zimbali Islamic Trust (absolutely no connection with the Zululand Islamic Society), purchased a large stand on Nandi Drive to the west of the Quarter Centre, and went to the trouble and expense of having a mosque and madrasa designed, documented and submitted to KDM for approval – much like all other religious organisations on the Dolphin Coast.

For reasons I have not been able to ascertain, this mosque project for the local Islamic community has been stalled by council because of “objections” from neighbouring commercial properties.

I have not been given chapter and verse by the building inspectorate, but I am somewhat astounded and concerned if this is in fact true and not another example of official obfuscation.

Please can we keep Townsend Park as public parkland and not sell it off to any private developer.

We have far too little public open spaces other than our fantastic beaches.

Follow The North Coast Courier on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram & YouTube for breaking news

Telegram Broadcast Service: https://t.me/joinchat/yJULuN8NaCs5OGM0

WhatsApp Broadcast Service: Add The Courier to WhatsApp at 082 792 9405 and WhatsApp your name and surname to be added.