Cooper indicated that residents have expressed concern about vagrants who regularly occupy the area’s parks at night.
He said, “According to the mayor’s office, there is an influx of about 12 000 people per month into the City of Joburg. James and Ethel Gray and Cheltondale parks, in particular, have this problem. This is a major security issue for residents and there have been some incidents of muggings and theft. Thus, there needs to be a concerted effort to house not only the masses but also those who take occupation of some of the parks as a refuge.”
The councillor also mentioned the issue of people who raid residents’ bins which are put out for collection by Pikitup. “I negotiated to establish a site for the bins [which is] next to the garden site in Melrose Street, but this has been slow to materialise. Clearly the City of Joburg, together with the commercial firms who purchase waste, must take the bull by the horns and arrange for collection sites. Let… those who collect, residents and the City benefit from these enterprises,” said Cooper.
Another issue that a number of residents have had enough of is the construction along Louis Botha Avenue which has continued for more than two years. “This has caused immense traffic problems and disruptions for many residents and will be endured for some time longer. The plan of the Corridor of Freedom is to allow development of areas adjacent to it and encourage investment and urban renewal. There is already a draft plan for Balfour Park available for viewing,” added Cooper.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the residents’ associations, the ward committee, Colonel Kemp, Gideon Cruywagen and City inspectors, particularly Refilwe Mokupu, and city officials for all their assistance and dedication in improving Ward 74.”
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