The deteriorating condition of Koedoepark in Wierdapark has reached a tipping point, with residents warning that the once-quiet municipal space has become a hub for illegal activity, filth, and public safety concerns.

Wierda Park Residents Association (WPRA) chairperson Liza Vorster described the situation as untenable.

“The situation at the park is really bad. The park has been in decline for years, with little visible intervention from authorities,” she said.

She explained that the condition of the park has worsened to such an extent that the residents’ association, alongside community members and a nearby tennis club, is now considering stepping in to clean the park themselves and cut down the trees.

They have stated that will do this by following proper municipal channels and obtaining permission from the city.

According to Vorster, the trees have inadvertently contributed to the problem.

She said they provide shade for individuals who occupy the park throughout the day, often engaging in public drinking and disruptive behaviour.

“They get there in the morning, just around 06:30, and leave very late. The same shaded areas are also used by illegal squatters who sleep in the park.”

In a bid to demonstrate the seriousness of their concerns, the community has already raised R16 000 to assist with cleaning efforts and the proposed cutting of trees.

However, Vorster noted that progress is complicated by the park’s zoning status.

She alleged that although the land is owned by the Tshwane metro, it is not formally zoned as a public park. She further highlighted issues of public indecency and safety.

“Homeless people sleep against the fence and urinate there. A nearby primary school has attempted to shield learners by installing a barrier along the fence line, but this has done little to resolve the problem,” she said.

Residents have also reported feeling intimidated. Vorster said the park often becomes overcrowded, with incidents of fighting breaking out.

She also expressed concern over the exposure of schoolchildren to ongoing illegal activities.

According to Vorster, makeshift sleeping spots are a constant sight, and a lack of by-law enforcement has left residents frustrated.

“The filth and lack of enforcement of municipal by-laws by the City of Tshwane is beyond comprehension,” she said.

Vorster also pointed to a recent break-in at a nearby home, where suspects allegedly fled into the park.

She stated that public drinking is a daily occurrence, with vehicles frequently parking in the area early in the mornings.

The association’s long-term plan is to reduce the park’s appeal for non-recreational use.

“We want to reduce the park’s attraction because it is not used for recreation. Instead, it has become a space that harbours migrants, squatters, and people who engage in public drinking.”

Proposed interventions include cutting the grass, trimming trees, and seeking funding to install barriers to restrict access.

Another concern raised by the WPRA chairperson is an informal feeding scheme that takes place on Sundays.

She claims individuals without proper registration provide food to homeless occupants at the park, which she says is in violation of municipal by-laws.

Voster believes this contributes to the ongoing occupation of the park, as it discourages individuals from leaving.

“We need by-law enforcement to address this issue. Residents are desperate for the park to be cleaned.”

In response to these concerns, Tshwane metro spokesperson Lindela Mashigo confirmed that the municipality is aware of the situation.

According to Mashigo, the metro’s parks section, a municipal team tasked with maintaining parks like Koedoe Park, is aware of the concerns regarding the condition of the park and the alleged activities taking place within the area.

“The park’s proximity to a shopping centre and nearby schools contributes to the presence of vagrants and job seekers,” he stated.

Mashigo said the park was inspected on February 9 this year.

During this inspection, officials identified issues including littering and the occupation of spaces beneath trees by vagrants.

He added that the metro police were called in to assist with incidents involving intoxicated individuals.

While Koedoe Park is included in the city’s monthly maintenance schedule, which covers grass cutting, litter removal, and general upkeep, Mashigo acknowledged that service delivery is sometimes disrupted.

He explained that the ongoing presence of job seekers and vagrants can affect the consistent implementation of maintenance efforts.

Addressing infrastructure concerns, Mashigo said gum poles previously installed at the park were removed through damage, deterioration, and vandalism.

“The city is in the process of replacing them to help restrict unauthorised vehicle access to the park. The city’s by-law enforcement section is actively working to address illegal dumping, public indecency, and other unlawful activities. This includes, where necessary, the removal of vagrants from the area.”

Mashigo noted that the TMPD is working alongside the SAPS and community structures to improve safety in the area.

He added that the matter of homeless individuals has been formally referred to the TMPD, who continue to monitor and manage the situation.

Regarding the reluctance of some homeless individuals to be relocated by the city, Mashigo said this is being addressed through collaboration between law enforcement and stakeholders from the Department of Social Development.

He noted that the city aims to balance community safety with humanitarian considerations through ongoing engagement.

“Accountability is maintained through regular maintenance by the Parks Section, as well as responses to complaints submitted via ward councillors and community structures, ensuring that issues are addressed in a structured and responsive manner,” added Mashigo.

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