Residents say the community has other priorities
By Peter Luhanga
28 February 2018
Built at a cost of just over R12 million, and opened less than a year ago in July 2017, the Atlantis park is falling into ruin as gangs have allegedly staked it out as their territory. Drug pushers are said to be active while pretending to enjoy the park. Vandals have removed swing sets and the seesaws, and damaged the water pipe which is now shut off.
GroundUp talked to residents who spoke on condition of anonymity. Residents said drug pushers used the park for their activities. One resident said the community had not been consulted by the City about whether the park was needed.
“Residents around the park are not interested in taking ownership of the park. They don’t see the need for the park. If they saw its value, they would have protected it,” he said.
The park has a lawn area with large trees providing shade for picnics and relaxation. The play area has equipment for toddlers and an adventure area for older children. There is also a synthetic pitch and a court for various sports; an outdoor gym for callisthenics; and pathways for walks and jogging.