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Community pushes back against dumping and fires at Donga Park

A new Clearview fence, planned for Donga Park, aims to curb dumping, fires, and unsafe activity, offering residents renewed hope for a cleaner, safer green space.

A long-troubled stretch of Donga Park could soon see a turnaround, as the Community Cleaners prepare to install a 2.1m Clearview fence along a problem section bordering Weltevreden Road, opposite Northcliff Primary School.

The proposed fence will cover the top 50m of the park, an area that has been repeatedly affected by illegal dumping, unauthorised sleeping, and open fires. These issues have led to ongoing safety concerns, unhygienic conditions, rodent infestations, and damage to both the environment and nearby properties.

Andre Swanepoel, of Community Cleaners, says the impact of the project will be felt almost immediately, once the fence is in place. “We expect a noticeable improvement in safety, cleanliness, and overall appearance of this section of Donga Park. The fence will discourage illegal dumping, unauthorised sleeping, and fires, which in turn reduces health risks, rodent activity, and litter.”

Read more: 70 reclaimers get ready to clean Brixton

According to Swanepoel, residents stand to benefit from a safer environment, improved visual appeal, and better protection for neighbouring properties, while the park itself will be easier to maintain over the long term.

The fence is also expected to play a key role in protecting infrastructure and the natural environment. “It creates a clear physical boundary that limits easy access to a problem area. It helps contain waste, reduces fire risks, and prevents debris from entering the storm water system and local stream.”

Donga Park, soon to be fenced off by Community Cleaners to restore local pride and community safety in Berario. Photo: Supplied

Ongoing maintenance of both the fence and the surrounding area will be handled by the Community Cleaners as part of their regular operations in Donga Park. “We already operate on a routine schedule here, removing litter and monitoring problem areas. Any minor repairs or upkeep will be addressed as needed, with continued support from donations and co-operation with relevant city departments where required.”

Also read: Westdenes youth get their hands dirty to keep their community clean

The total cost of the Donga Park Clearview Fence Project is R53 877.50. As a fully community-funded initiative, the project depends entirely on contributions from residents and businesses.

Community Cleaners are calling on the Berario community to support the project, noting that even small donations can help move it forward and secure lasting improvements to the park.

Donations can be made to Community Cleaners NPC, with the reference – Fence.

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Waydon Jacobs

Waydon Jacobs is community journalist who has written articles for the Northcliff Melville Times. He has covered various stories including sports, community, and schools.

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