EXCLUSIVE: Community park laid to waste
Theft, neglect and vandalism - is this what we want our children exposed to?
MADADENI – What was meant to be the sanctuary for childhood memories has been tarnished by senseless vandalism.
This comes after a park in Madadeni Section 1, Ward 20, came under fire after a resident took to social media to highlight its poor condition.
MUST READ: Park of despair and disrepair
Approximately R3-million was allegedly reserved by the municipality to upgrade the park facility in July.
Five months later, the park has fallen into a state of disrepair.
The park equipment was vandalised, to such an extent that it could jeopardise children’s safety.
Ablution facilities were stripped to the point where it is now unusable.
The ceiling boards were damaged and removed, light fittings, cables and taps were reportedly stolen.
Toilets and sinks were broken, with the debris scattered along the floor, also hazardous to children wishing to relieve themselves. Shattered windows exposed the interior of the bathroom facilities to the elements.
ALSO READ: Neglected park hosts play ground for unscrupulous behaviour
Taps in the park were rendered useless, either due to no water or the fixtures being stolen.
Lamp poles meant to serve as a form of light during the evening were rendered obsolete, due to vandalism and theft.
Ward 20 Councillor, Lamilile Sikhosane, said she was concerned about the dilapidated state of the park.
“I have complained to the municipality and it can be fixed, but it is going to be expensive and can affect service delivery in other aspects,” she said.
Read the full story in the next edition of the Newcastle Advertiser.
