- Thornton residents held an urgent public meeting to discuss the Green Wall squatter camp issue.
- The TRRA emphasised the importance of community involvement in deciding the camp’s future.
- TRRA committed to keeping residents informed on further developments.
The Thornton community gathered for an urgent public meeting to address the ongoing issue of the Green Wall squatter camp.
The meeting, organised by the Thornton Ratepayers and Residents Association (TRRA), was deemed crucial for informing residents about the plans and developments regarding the squatter camp, which has significantly impacted the lives of Thornton residents for several years.
READ | ‘What happens behind the green wall?’: Residents near Epping Market at their wits’ end
The meeting was described as an essential information session, featuring a comprehensive report by TRRA representatives and officials from relevant City departments. The aim was to enlighten residents on the plans presented to organisational role-players at a recent Police Imbizo by councillor Riad Davids. Given the sensitivity and significance of the issue, the TRRA felt compelled to convene a public meeting to ensure that the process remains transparent, accountable, and inclusive of the community’s views.
Outcomes
Nadeem Hendricks, acting chair of the TRRA executive, emphasised the importance of the meeting, stating, “The executive of the TRRA cannot take responsibility for such an important issue. It is the prerogative of the Thornton community to listen and decide.” He urged residents to attend and participate actively, stressing that the future of the Green Wall squatter camp – and consequently the future of Thornton – depends on the community’s input and decisions. “Remember that Thornton is your area and you pay rates. Come, listen and give guidance on an issue that will impact your life and that of your family as Thornton residents for decades to come. Failure to attend is a failure to take ownership of a very important decision affecting our community,” Hendricks added.
“The meeting was good,” said Hendricks. Following the session, the committee elected to engage further with the mayor and the councillor for human settlements.”
Hendricks assured the community that updates will be provided as the situation develops, stating, “we will keep you informed when the time is right”.
