SCP Security has officially adopted Northcliff Eco Ridge Park, marking a major milestone for both the company and the Johannesburg community.
On January 22, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed with City Parks, formalising SCP’s commitment to maintaining the park and ensuring its safety.

SCP operations manager, Jaun van der Westhuizen, said that adopting the park is a milestone for them, and believes that it is important to have someone responsible for the park, from a security perspective. “We decided to adopt the park because we were already actively looking after it, including opening and closing the gates. Every night after the gates are locked, we conduct a full sweep of the ridge to ensure that no visitors are left behind. It was a natural step for us to formalise this responsibility from a security perspective.”

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The broader mission of the company is to maintain and protect the parks in the areas where they operate, ensuring that these spaces remain safe and accessible for the community, according to Van Der Westhuizen. “From elderly residents walking their dogs, to joggers and children playing in the park, our visible presence provides reassurance that people can enjoy the park without fear.”

He said that in the past, they faced challenges such as incidents of vandalism, including a park bench that was set alight. “The individuals responsible were tracked down and handed over to the police. These incidents reinforced the importance of having an organisation actively responsible for the ridge.”

The company has since reinstalled a top-of-the-range camera near the water tower on the ridge, which is monitored 24/7 by their control room. Van Der Westhuizen added that the camera has long-range and full-rotation capabilities, allowing them to monitor activity across the park. “This is critical for detecting potential risks, including fires. Our private fire search and rescue team has responded to multiple fires on the ridge, which pose a serious threat due to the proximity of nearby homes.”

This partnership with City Parks, formalised through the MOU, focuses on three key areas: responding to major fires, conducting clean-ups, and protecting the community and visitors in the park during emergencies.

Also read: Northcliff Ridge Eco Park transforms with security and community support

City Parks spokesperson, Jenny Moodley, highlighted that this partnership reflects a shared commitment to safeguarding one of Johannesburg’s most cherished green spaces – a site celebrated for its romantic panoramic views, ecological significance, and rich biodiversity. “City Parks extends its sincere appreciation to SCP Security, community stakeholders, and residents whose collective efforts have made this collaboration possible. Partnerships such as these play a critical role in enhancing safety, preserving natural assets and ensuring that public open spaces remain accessible and well cared for.”

Moodley added that while security presence is strengthened through this collaboration, City Parks still reminds all park users that compliance with park rules remains essential. “Responsible use, respect for the environment, and vigilance by visitors are key to protecting this magnificent facility and its sensitive ecosystems for current and future generations.”

The managing director of City parks, Thanduxolo Mendrew, noted that now more than ever, the city’s green lungs need everyone to stand together. “Protecting our open spaces cannot be the responsibility of one entity alone; it requires a united effort from government, partners, and communities working as custodians of Johannesburg’s heritage.”

City Parks said residents and stakeholders are encouraged to remain actively involved in preserving the park and to report any concerns or enquiries 011 712 6600.

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