Paddock Street Park in disarray
What was once a place where children could enjoy the outdoors, has become an alleged ‘squatter camp’ for inconsiderate litterbugs
Hair pieces, clothes, broken glass, Christmas hats and toothpaste tubes lay strewn across ‘battlegrounds’ that were once playgrounds. The Paddock Street Park has become a hazard for any child who dares to set foot there.
A resident who chose to remain anonymous said, “I have taken my grandchildren to the park for many years. Every time we go back, it seems like piles of rubbish are popping up out of nowhere.”
What was once a place where children could enjoy the outdoors, has become an alleged ‘squatter camp’ for inconsiderate litterbugs.
“It has become a germ-infested cesspit. I refuse to return to a place where I am gambling with the safety of my grandchildren.”
“The matter has been reported to the Parks Department and I have been assured the park will be cleaned as soon as possible,” said Councillor Bebsie Cronjè.
At the foot of the swings, broken glass concealed by a layer of sand waits for an unsuspecting victim. Mouldy bread, beer bottles, condoms, cigarette boxes and blow-up balls lay scattered across the playground that is almost eerie during the day.
“I would like to encourage Ward 2 residents to report issues like this when they occur so I can report it directly to the departments concerned,” commented Cllr Cronjè.
The park has since been abandoned and the laughter of children can no longer be heard close by. The residents can only hope someone will take the time to restore the park to its former glory before the swings stand still for good.
Contact Cllr Cronjè on 073 941 1846.
