Residents recently voiced frustration over the condition of Outspan Bird Sanctuary, claiming it took more than six months for grass cutting to begin.

Community members complained about nearly two-metre-high overgrowth, incomplete clearing, mounds of cut grass left behind, and increased sightings of rats and snakes. Concerns were also raised about erosion along the stormwater outlet running into the greenbelt.

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In response, Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) has acknowledged the delays and apologised to residents.

JCPZ spokesperson Jenny Moodley said the site is a demarcated conservation area, which means maintenance differs from that of ornamental parks. “This area is a designated conservation site. Mowing and landscaping interventions are intentionally limited in certain sections to protect natural habitats, encourage indigenous vegetation, and sustain biodiversity. Maintenance standards in conservation areas prioritise ecological preservation rather than manicured aesthetics.”

According to Moodley, the park is scheduled for maintenance twice per financial year. However, delays occurred due to the unavailability of an assigned contractor, while heavy rainfall towards the end of last year contributed to further overgrowth.
She confirmed that maintenance work is ongoing.

“An initial phase of grass cutting has been completed, and teams will return within the next two weeks to finalise outstanding sections and address priority areas.”

Moodley added that the remaining mounds of cut grass will be removed in line with standard operating procedures. A joint site visit between JCPZ officials and community members was conducted this week to clarify the maintenance process and confirm the equipment being used. Where overgrowth is excessive, heavier machinery may be deployed.

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On reports of increased rats and snakes, Moodley said the Integrated Conservation Management unit has not formally received such complaints but will continue monitoring the site.

She emphasised that certain wildlife sightings form part of a functioning greenbelt ecosystem.

Regarding erosion along the stormwater outlet, JCPZ said the matter falls under the jurisdiction of the Johannesburg Roads Agency and will be escalated for technical assessment. Moodley encouraged residents to log service requests through the Joburg Connect Call Centre to ensure queries are formally recorded and tracked.

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