Parktown residents are raising more concerns about the worsening state of Pieter Roos Park, saying that illegal gatherings and fires have made the once-loved public space unsafe and unrecognisable.

Resident Nazime Randeree described how the park has changed dramatically in recent years. He said that on Sundays, the park overflows with large groups who gather for church services, social events, or waste sorting, leaving behind litter and destruction.

“By Monday morning, the entire park is filthy. There is rubbish scattered everywhere, fires smouldering from the night before, and a haze of smoke hanging in the trees. It is not just about cleanliness anymore; it is a serious safety and environmental concern.”

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Randeree added that some of the fires are started using wood from trees that have been cut down inside the park. He said these gatherings often continue late into the night, creating noise and safety risks for residents.

“Families can no longer use the park. Even students from Wits are told not to walk through it because it is too dangerous.”

Residents have repeatedly called on the City of Johannesburg and Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) to intervene, but say little has changed. “We have reported this for years, and nothing permanent is being done. It feels like nobody is listening.”

Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) spokesperson Xolani Fihla confirmed that the department is aware of the escalating problem.

“JMPD is aware of the illegal occupation, makeshift dwellings, and associated safety risks, which include open fires, public substance abuse, and sanitation issues.”

He explained that the department has conducted several clean-up and enforcement operations in the park, issuing fines for illegal dumping, public drinking, and the making of fires in public spaces.

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“However, these efforts have not been enough to provide a long-term solution because displaced individuals often return.”Fihla emphasised that the issue extends beyond policing. “The problem of illegal occupation and gatherings is fundamentally social.

JMPD is working closely with Social Development to offer displaced persons alternative shelter options, while maintaining visible patrols to enforce by-laws.”

He also confirmed that JMPD will be taking action against delivery motorbikes that park or ride inside the park.

“This behaviour is a clear contravention of park by-laws and poses a danger to pedestrians. Officers will issue fines immediately to anyone caught doing this.”

Despite these commitments, residents remain sceptical. Randeree said the community simply wants the park restored to a safe, clean space that people can use again.

“Pieter Roos Park should be a place where children can play and families can relax. Instead, it feels abandoned and unsafe. We just want to see action, not promises.”

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