Around three months ago the Record reported about the overgrown plot on the corner of Ouklip and Graphite Roads.
This piece of land became a matter of big concern over the past three to four years as it hasn’t been maintained by its rightful custodians. Not only has it become a dirty, unsafe and unsightly piece of land, but also provided the perfect setting for unlawful activity such as illegal dumping, squatting, and house robberies and theft.
The grass and weeds have also been growing into the road, reducing the lane space for motorists on Ouklip Road.
According to Ward 83 councillor Florence Roberts she has been aware of the issue for many years. This particular piece of land belongs to the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) and has been a matter of concern for the past ten years or so.
“The original plan was to build a school, but it never materialised. Either way the GDE remains accountable for the upkeep of the plot,” she said.
Florence added that there are 15 unkept stands within her ward – none of them City of Johannesburg property. Prioritising the community’s overall safety and security, she invited representatives from City Parks, Environmental Health, Land Conservation and JMPD to visit these sites to gain an understanding of the extent of the problems.
She also highlighted that those living near the overgrown plot located between CR Swart Road and Karnelian and Borniet Avenues, are in constant fear.
“A large number of people walk through it to their place of employment every day, and because the grass and weeds grow as high as 1,7m it provides the perfect opportunity for the thugs watching the residents’ properties to plan their next crime,” Florence said.
For many years, the resident adjacent to this plot on Karnelian Avenue had been cleaning a large part of it in efforts to ensure the safety of his family.
According to Andreas Oberlechner from the Roodekrans Neighbourhood Watch the three biggest concerns are housebreakings, vehicle theft and municipal infrastructure theft. Statistics have shown that many of these incidents can be attributed to an overgrown plot adjacent to, or near the targeted residence.
“I brought these statistics to the attention of the relevant officials and by the end of May, residents all over the ward were pleased to see that ten of the plots – either Gauteng Department of Road and Transport or GDE property – finally were being cleaned up with funds from City Park’s left over budget,” Florence said.
Florence is now focused on finding a permanent solution to have these plots maintained on a regular basis. While she is happy to report on the successful project, there is more to the process than meets the eye.
“Since these plots belong to departments on provincial level, it has to be driven on a provincial and national level. Projects such as this one usually require the stamp of approval from various officials. The process can also take some time, and residents should keep this in mind,” Florence concluded.
“I want to credit City Parks for a job well done. I believe this is a tangible sign that our new mayor is focused on service delivery. I hope this encourages residents to once again take pride in their neighbourhood.”
