Norwood Park, tucked away at the corner of Grant Avenue and Ivy Road, has seen better days.

Once a vibrant green space for locals, the park has increasingly become a hotspot for crime, makeshift shelters, and illicit activity, leaving residents deeply concerned about safety and the well-being of the neighbourhood.

Jason Grove, chairperson of the Norwood Orchards Residents Association (NORA), painted a stark picture. “Norwood Park has fallen into a complete [squalor]. It is utterly unacceptable that a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for the park adoption has not been finalised after more than a year.”

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Grove highlighted a series of incidents that have escalated tensions in the area.

“We had a stabbing incident in August last year, where a community member was assaulted by a displaced individual who made the park their home. There is also ongoing drug dealing and prostitution. Residents, businesses, and visitors cannot continue to be sidelined.”

In response to these challenges, Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) have officially endorsed the Grant Avenue Business Initiative NPC (GABI NPC) to adopt Norwood Park.

The adoption plan includes installing a permeable fence with pedestrian and service gates, developing a running track and modern children’s play area, landscaping and indigenous tree planting, and implementing strategies to enhance safety and deter vagrancy.

Plans also include CCTV cameras, outdoor gym equipment, and even a modular refreshment kiosk to support park activities.

Jenny Moodley, from JCPZ, emphasised the role of community involvement in park management. “Adopt-a-Park is a partnership initiative where residents, businesses, and security companies help maintain and activate public parks. Parks remain accessible to everyone, and the initiative strengthens safety, improves maintenance, and fosters pride and stewardship in the community.”

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Several northern suburbs have already benefited from similar programmes, with improvements in Craighall Park, Morsim Park, Killarney, Zoo Lake, and The Wilds. Residents have reported safer, cleaner, and more welcoming spaces, showing the positive impact of joint community and city efforts.

Ward 73 councillor Eleanor Huggett acknowledged the socioeconomic challenges that contribute to park issues.

“Unemployment and displacement are affecting public spaces across the city. While past community leaders and officials have done excellent work, more co-ordinated support is needed to manage safety, maintenance, and accessibility.”

For Norwood residents, the message is clear: They are no longer willing to wait. With a combination of strong local leadership, business collaboration, and City Parks support, the community is determined to transform Norwood Park from a neglected space into a safe, green haven that belongs to everyone.

Residents or organisations interested in contributing to the park’s revitalisation can submit proposals to JCPZ, ensuring that the park remains open, accessible, and enjoyable for the whole community.

JMPD was approached for comment on January 8, along with Norwood SAPS. We will print their comments when we receive them.

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