Residents and businesses in Fontainebleau have raised serious concerns about the worsening condition of a community park bordered by Rabie Road, Martha Road, and Maria Road, saying the area has become unsafe and unhealthy.

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In a formal complaint sent to the municipality, Catherine Rickoff, who is a resident, said the park has steadily deteriorated over the past year due to increasing occupation by vagrants and informal scrap collectors. “The park has become a sorting and burning ground for recyclable materials, leaving behind large piles of ash, rubbish, and debris. This ongoing mess attracts pests and poses serious health risks to nearby residents.”

According to the letter, makeshift shelters built from cardboard, plastic, and other discarded materials have been erected throughout the park. Rickoff said the number of people living there continues to grow and now includes children. “These children are living in unsafe and unhygienic conditions.”

Rickoff added that while authorities have previously attempted to remove people from the park, they return almost immediately, and the waste is never properly cleared. “This has resulted in a continuous cycle of occupation and environmental decay.”

She also highlighted the growing tension between park occupants and surrounding businesses. “Neighbouring businesses have repeatedly tried to have the individuals removed, but the response has been loud and threatening, creating a hostile and intimidating environment.”

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Of further concern to residents is an alleged increase in criminal activity in the area, including claims of drug dealing near two schools located along the same roads. “What was once a safe and well-used public space is now actively avoided by residents due to safety concerns.” These claims could not be independently verified at the time of publication.

Residents are now calling on the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality to take urgent action. Requests include an immediate assessment of the park, increased law enforcement and by-law officer presence, a full clean-up of the area, and social services support for vulnerable individuals, especially children. “While the community is sympathetic to people facing hardship, the severity and persistence of this situation now requires decisive and sustained intervention.”

Residents have asked for written acknowledgement of the complaint and a clear timeline outlining the steps the municipality intends to take.

The Randburg Sun has sent queries to the municipality and is awaiting a response.

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