Residents who want to contribute to future clean-ups and maintenance initiatives are encouraged to get involved. Photo: Supplied
Community members in Pretoria North have stepped in to restore safety and cleanliness at a deteriorating historical park.
Ward 2 councillor Quentin Meyer highlighted concerns regarding the neglect of historical public spaces.
“Our heritage is extremely important to us. We cannot simply stand by and watch places that form part of our local history deteriorate,” said Meyer.
Ward councillor Quentin Meyer help clean-up the park. Photo: Supplied
He stated that the park was in a very bad condition, with regular littering and drug use reported nearby.
Meyer said 18 discarded injection needles were collected during the clean-up, while the absence of streetlights also created safety concerns at night.
”This is not the condition we should accept for a heritage space in our community,” he said.
The initiative also highlighted the importance of residents taking an active role in caring for public spaces. Photo: Supplied
The initiative also highlighted the importance of residents taking an active role in caring for public spaces.
”If we want change, let’s be part of the change. Let’s do it ourselves and take care of our heritage,” said Meyer.
Tshwane metro police visit site
The Tshwane Metro Police Department recently visited Monument Poort Park, at the intersection of Emily Hobhouse Avenue and President Steyn Street, as well as the park on the corner of Burger Street and Brits Road.
The intervention comes amid concerns about the cleanliness and condition of the public spaces, with Meyer saying that while the plight of homeless people is understood, public areas must remain accessible to the wider community.
Metro spokesperson Lindela Mashigo previously told Rekord that in similar cases of homeless people sleeping in public places, social workers are dispatched to conduct interviews to establish if they need shelter.
Mashigo said that, under the 2005 by-laws on public amenities, no one is allowed to stay or sleep in public places after hours.
Infringement carries a fine of R10 000 or 12 months’ imprisonment.
The community clean-up on October 3 saw residents remove litter and take action to improve the neglected public space. Photo: Supplied
Future plans for park
Meyer said further clean-ups and improvement efforts were planned, adding that Saturday’s initiative was not a once-off exercise.
Residents who want to contribute to future clean-ups and maintenance initiatives are encouraged to get involved.
Meyer said his long-term vision was for the park to be properly fenced and secured, with adequate lighting, regular cleaning and ongoing maintenance.
Metro spokesperson Lindela Mashigo previously told Rekord that the 2005 bylaws prohibit individuals from sleeping in public areas after hours. Photo: Supplied
He said the aim was to preserve the site’s historical importance while creating a clean, safe and welcoming space for residents, families, schools and visitors.
”Our heritage belongs to the community. We must protect it, look after it and ensure that future generations can appreciate it.’
Trott Chaane is a journalist at Pretoria Rekord, focusing on local news. With experience in audio editing and online news, Trott delivers well-researched and accurate articles. Dedicated to impactful journalism, he is passionate about growing in the field and making a difference.
