Blairgowrie Park gets much-needed attention
Ward 102 councillor Lucinda Harman said that the intervention service delivery operations are held monthly in problematic areas especially where there are displaced people and illegal activities.
Ward 102 councillor Lucinda Harman recently launched a joint operation to clean up Blairgowrie Park and remove displaced people who have taken over the space.
The operation was supported by the Linden SAPS, Joburg Metro Police Department (JMPD), City Parks, Pikitup, and other security providers in Blairgowrie.
Harman explained that it was due to complaints from residents and Ekklesia Park Retirement Home near the park where displaced people lived.
Things like beds, recyclable material and metal goods, second-hand items, resident refuse bins and a bulletproof vest were found and removed.
“The problem is big. There should be no one living in a park or greenbelt. Structured housing is needed, yet displaced people across the ward are offered a place to live by social housing and they refuse to move there.”
When asked how they plan to ensure that the people do not return, she said, “I do not have the power or means to stop this. City Parks with JMPD must keep parks safe and free of homeless people and illegal activities by closing them off, employing park rangers, and conducting daily checks. Parks should be closed when the sun sets.”
She added that the police and local security companies are looking at ways to address the matter as well.
JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla said that the sight of a significant number of people living homeless and, on the streets, presents a considerable challenge.
“These individuals are often removed from their current locations and encouraged to move to shelters. However, it’s important to note that they can’t be forced into shelters; their participation must be voluntary.”
He added that the areas known to be frequented by homeless individuals are continuously monitored by officers to make sure that they do not go back.
“The City of Johannesburg by-laws prohibit loitering and unauthorized use of public spaces and infrastructure, such as pavements and bridges. To try to solve the homelessness issues we are addressing homelessness necessitates a multifaceted approach, encompassing social support, affordable housing, and mental health services.”
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