UPDATE: Sandown residents and businesses take Sandspruit River crises into their own hands
Facing months of environmental degradation, with Johannesburg municipal department’s budget unavailable, residents and businesses have launched the Sandspruit Environmental Renewal Initiative (SERI) to restore and secure the deteriorating Sandspruit River greenbelt.
Sandown and Strathavon residents, together with businesses based in Kramerville, have taken bold steps to reclaim the Sandspruit River greenbelt between Katherine Street and South Road, following months of environmental degradation and safety concerns.
The greenbelt, once a peaceful urban haven, has recently faced issues of illegal dumping, makeshift dwellings by informal recyclers, and uncontrolled fires, creating both an environmental and social hazard.
The community have been actively engaging with various departments from the City of Johannesburg, including Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo, Johannesburg Roads Agency and Citizen Relationship and Urban Management (Crum).
However, they have been informed that there is no budget to offer financial support. Therefore, they have formed the Sandspruit Environmental Renewal Initiative (SERI), a registered non-profit company dedicated to restoring and safeguarding this critical urban green space.
The first critical step is fencing off the greenbelt, a project estimated to cost around R600 000, with additional funds needed for clearing, waste management, and ongoing maintenance.
Jill Hagley, one of the SERI directors, emphasised the urgency of the initiative. “This greenbelt is part of our community’s natural heritage. It has become unsafe and unsightly, affecting both residents and local businesses.
“We have been actively engaging with various departments from the City of Johannesburg, which have been very helpful. However, we have been informed that there is no budget to offer financial support.
“The city has, however, granted permission for the space to be fenced off, the critical first step to restoring and securing the area. By taking responsibility ourselves, we are showing that communities can come together to protect and restore public spaces when municipal resources are limited,” she said.
Also read: Sandspruit River ongoing pollution crisis frustrates Sandown residents
SERI is calling on local businesses and community members to partner in the restoration project. Financial, material, or service-based contributions will help secure the greenbelt, improve safety, and restore its ecological balance.
In recognition of corporate support, Hagley said City Parks-approved sponsor boards will be installed at the entrance of the rehabilitated area, allowing contributors to showcase their commitment to community and environmental stewardship.
“The beauty of this initiative is that it benefits everyone,” Hagley added. “Property values are protected, business environments are safer, and residents can once again enjoy a clean, green space. Together, we can turn this neglected area into a vibrant and sustainable green corridor for future generations.”
She added that they already started engaging with local businesses, and once the organisation receives its Section 18A certification from SARS, contributions will be tax-deductible, ensuring transparency and accountability.
“Together, we can restore this riverbank to a safe, clean, and sustainable green space that benefits everyone who lives and works here.”
Details: Contact Jill Hagley on 083 947 9683/ jill.hagley@outlook.com
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