Discussions still underway for Florida Lake revamp

In December last year the Record reported on the planned revamping and development to take place at Florida Lake.

It is through this article that many members of the community expressed their surprise since it was their first time hearing of this development.

The Record approached Rupert September, one of the developers on the project and part of the Agang Tswelopele Industries (ATI), with specific questions regarding their plans for the lake and the possible repercussions to the environment to which he stated that the project complied with all the applicable regulations.

Regarding the estimated cost of the project, September answered, “The ATI Foundation is fully funding the project and no government funds will be used for the implementation of the project. We estimate an amount of about R42.9 million for all phases of the lake.”

According to September, a new date will be set to commence the start of the project due to delays.

Ward 70 Councillor Caleb Finn was also approached for comment and stated he was aware of the plans for the development at Florida Lake and confirmed discussions are still underway with the relevant stakeholders. He referred the Record to Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) for any further queries.

“The value of the project is R1,2 million, with no repercussions to the environment. JCPZ’s development is currently at 40% completion and will be done by March 15 if the weather permits. We are working on the entrance and adding more playground equipment,” Jenny Moodley, JCPZ spokesperson confirmed.

“Public participation was concluded some time ago and a community liaison officer to inform residents was appointed for the duration of the project,” she concluded.

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