Residents from Northwold Gardens and surrounding complexes took matters into their own hands this week, coming together to fix potholes and clean pavements along Aureole Road after ongoing service delivery problems.

Rob Cloete, a resident of Northwold Gardens and Aureole Manor, said the community reached a point where they could no longer wait for help from the City of Johannesburg.

“We’ve just got to a point where nothing is being done about the potholes. There have been accidents happening outside our complex, so we’re trying to repair the potholes as well as we can.”

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The clean-up stretch runs from Northumberland Avenue along Aureole Road to Montrose, with residents trimming bushes, clearing litter, and removing illegal dumping.

Cloete said the area has also been affected by illegal activities, including gambling, which has added to residents’ concerns.

He confirmed that the community has engaged with the City of Johannesburg about the problems. “They are trying to send resources, but nothing has been sent as yet. As residents, we are concerned about the value of our properties and the way the area is going.”

Despite the frustrations, Cloete described the community turnout as encouraging. He estimated that around 50% of Northwold Gardens residents participated, with additional support coming from nearby complexes, such as Lurie’s Loft and Weaver’s Way.

Private security companies, including Lonwaba Security, SP Security, TRSS, and ADT, also assisted on the day. “The community has come out in their droves. Everybody is pulling their weight. It’s always nice to have a community that works together.”

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He added that the initiative shows what can be achieved when residents unite.

“As South Africans, when the chips are down, we get motivated. We don’t just lie around and look on, we get out there and do the job.”

Cloete had a message for other communities facing similar service delivery challenges.

“Be positive. The only way we’re going to build this country is to work together and stand together as communities.”

He said while residents should continue engaging with local authorities, community action can make a real difference. “We can do what the City of Johannesburg is not doing for us and get it done.”

The Northwold clean-up is expected to continue, with residents hoping their efforts will not only improve safety but also restore pride in the area.

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