Crawford Street Park joins the ranks of vandalised playgrounds
Most concerning was the lack of security guards at the grounds, enabling vagrants and vandals to abuse the park.
NEWCASTLE – Broken and damaged equipment is indicative of rampant vandalism at the once state-of-the-art Crawford Street Play Park.
Both swing sets are broken, the merry-go-round is falling apart, the volleyball nets torn and the see-saw has seen better days.
Most concerning was the lack of security guards at the grounds, enabling vagrants and vandals to abuse the park.
Ward 4 Councillor, Bertie Meiring agreed conditions at the park were unacceptable.
“I must admit after all the money which was spent on the park, I am disappointed to see it being neglected the way it is. I also believe the fact that security guards are not being appointed to look after the park contributes to the vandalism there.”
Mr Meiring undertook to meet with councillors to address the ongoing destruction, neglect and vandalism of the parks in Newcastle.
He had previously urged the residents of Newcastle to join him in creating a community forum focused on the maintenance and safety of play parks in town.
“We have the power to take matters in our own hands and fix up and maintain our playgrounds. Although I will also take the matter up with the municipality to have the broken equipment removed, I do believe that if we come together with the community and find ways to look after the parks, it will make a difference,” he concluded.
If anyone is interested in joining a community park forum, SMS your name and number to Councillor Bertie Meiring on 084 406 4953.
Director of Community Services Parks, Recreation and Cemeteries, Vish Govender recently stated the parks in Newcastle were cleaned and maintained periodically and according to the department’s schedule.
People utilising play parks are urged to take care of park equipment and to report broken equipment, vandalism and other criminal activities to the Newcastle Municipality on 034 940 0440.
