I’m writing to express my concern about the deteriorating state of our beloved public Dam Park, which sits next to my home in Strand.
Lately it’s been a hot spot for rule-breaking and disregard for public health, safety and the environment. While it’s heartening to see people enjoying the park, the pervasive littering and disrespect for nature tarnishes its beauty.
I appreciate the municipality’s efforts in maintaining cleanliness and appeal, but without enforcement these endeavours are futile.
Every weekend cars drive onto the park grounds blaring music, even though there are clear rules against it.
Despite calls to Law Enforcement, the issue persists. We even had two minibuses driving onto the park, turning it into a makeshift nightclub.
A recent wedding held in the park highlighted flaws in the permitting process. Residents were uninformed, and the event continued despite violations of park regulations, including loud music playing past the permit expiry.
Reckless parking poses safety risks, especially on blind turns. This lack of consideration for public health and safety is concerning.
I urge our esteemed ward councillor, Carl Punt, and the municipality to clarify permit issuance and enforce park rules.
How can permits be issued to a park without ablution facilities, leading to unsanitary conditions near homes when party guests relieve themselves against the walls of homes?
The park rules clearly state that no music is allowed and that no cars are allowed in the park. How can a permit be issued to someone breaking all of these rules and disregarding the health and safety of everybody?
Urgent action is needed to ensure adherence to regulations and safeguard the tranquillity and safety of park visitors.
I propose the installation of a chain barrier at the point where cars routinely enter the park, accompanied by clear signs indicating vehicular restrictions.
Ample parking exists in the vicinity, requiring only a short stroll to access the park’s amenities.
Let’s work together to restore our park’s sanctity for future generations to enjoy. – Christine Canaris, Strand
Patricia van der Ross, Mayoral Committee member for Community Service and Health, responds: “The City of Cape Town’s Recreation and Parks Department allows for events to be held at public parks throughout the City.The nature and size of the event is what guides the department to determine whether a permit will be issued by the sub-area office or the City’s Events Office.
“Small events are handled at sub-area office level, whereas big events are forwarded to the City’s corporate Events Office. The sub area office then determines the applicable rates as per current park tariffs, and communicates this to the applicant. Once payment has been made, a permit will be generated and issued to the applicant.
“The permit contains all the terms and conditions of the booking. The department will, however, be happy to engage the community through the ward councillor to discuss specific areas of concern to establish how that can be addressed with permit applications. Measures are being considered or implemented to address issues such as littering, unauthourised access by vehicles, and noise disturbances within the park.
“As discussed above, the permit contains all the terms and conditions of the booking. There is signage at the park referring to these, and the Recreation and Parks Department relies on the City’s Law Enforcement Department should these be not adhered to [by the permit-holder].
“Any plans for improving park facilities and amenities to enhance the overall visitor experience while promoting public health and safety [are welcomed]. The department is exploring a more permanent solution to prohibit vehicular access to the park as this is the major challenge at the moment.
“Plans to clean the dam are also currently underway to reduce the growth of water plants. Additionally, the resident has proposed the installation of a chain barrier and clear signage to restrict vehicular access to the park, along with other suggestions to mitigate the concerns. Chains have been installed; however, the current challenges also relate to vandalism by park users who want to forcefully park inside the facility. The department is exploring a more permanent solution for access of vehicles and will communicate the way forward once all the details have been established.”
