Moreleta Park residents, alongside local businesses, a private security company and Ward 47 councillor Lida Erasmus, recently united to clean and upgrade Beagle Park on Witdoring Avenue.

The initiative was spearheaded by Erasmus, with support from community members and sponsors who volunteered their time and resources to restore the popular recreational space.

Bull Security sponsored lead-free playground paint, which will also be used for upcoming park upgrade projects. Residents from the surrounding neighbourhood played a role by assisting with sanding, painting, clearing debris and trimming rose bushes.

“As part of the clean-up drive, volunteers repainted and repaired the jungle gyms to ensure they remain safe and durable for children. Grass cutting and general maintenance were also conducted to improve visibility and eliminate potential hiding spots for criminal activity, particularly during evening hours.”

Beagle Park serves as an important recreational hub within the Moreleta Park community.

According to Erasmus, the park is regularly used by residents walking their dogs, families enjoying picnics and children making use of the playground facilities. The space also accommodates community gatherings, including prayer meetings hosted by a local church group.

Erasmus highlighted the importance of community parks in promoting social cohesion and providing safe recreational environments.

“Access to well-maintained green spaces contributes positively to residents’ mental and physical well-being while encouraging community interaction,” she explained.

She further acknowledged that limited municipal budgets and staffing shortages continue to pose challenges in maintaining public parks and recreational facilities.

Erasmus stressed that partnerships between communities and businesses are crucial in sustaining improvement initiatives.

“This is not just a once-off project. We will continue until all parks in Ward 47 are restored and maintained,” she said.

She encouraged residents to participate in the Tshwane metro’s Adopt-a-Spot programme, which enables communities to take ownership of maintaining and beautifying public spaces.

Erasmus expressed appreciation to the Moreleta Park community for supporting the initiative, as well as to Bull Security for sponsoring paint, Halo Technologies for providing refreshments to volunteers and the Venter family for assisting with logistics on the day.

The next clean-up initiative is scheduled to take place at a park in Boston Street, Elardus Park. Residents interested in participating can contact Erasmus on 071 419 0090 to join the Ward 47 community WhatsApp groups for updates on future projects.

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