In an effort to keep local parks clean, Glen Anil residents joined forces with Ward 110 PR Councillor Rowena Bosman to clean up Gwarri Road park on Saturday, 25 October.
The Councillor said that complaints from residents regarding overgrown trees, and neglected verges had prompted action. “I took it upon myself to visit and view some complaints and some of the parks within Ward 110, and discovered a few needing TLC.
While it’s true that we all pay rates and taxes, I believe we also have a shared responsibility to ensure that our public spaces don’t deteriorate and become neglected dumping grounds.”
“A clean, well-maintained park is not only about aesthetics but about creating a safe, welcoming space for our children and our families to enjoy,” she added.
“Doing this alongside local residents was important to me because it’s about leading by example and showing that when we work together, we can make a visible difference. This also gave me an opportunity to meet fellow residents beyond WhatsApp complaints, engage with them, and help improve our living environment.”
Looking ahead, Bosman plans to continue with the ‘Paint Ward 110 Blue’ initiative, which focuses on park clean-up projects. She stated that with the cooperation and involvement of residents, they can collectively enhance parks, promote community pride, and contribute to a cleaner, safer, and more welcoming environment.
The PR Councillor urged local residents to take photographs as evidence and report any illegal dumping or deliberate neglect to the Metro Police.
“We can either sit back and watch our community crumble, or we can roll up our sleeves and rebuild it together. It takes a bit of time and energy, and along the way, you get to know your neighbours and strengthen the bonds that make our community unique. It truly takes a village to raise and protect our children, so let’s show them what it means to build, not break, our city.”
EThekwini Parks Department members were also present to collect the pile of dumped goods and refuse picked up by the residents.
One of the residents, Cliff Veteran, said that the clean-up was an effective way of contributing to a better and cleaner neighbourhood. He said: “I think people feel a stronger sense of ownership and appreciation for the park now that it is cleaner and more inviting. It might also inspire others to help maintain the park and keep it clean in the future.”
He added that he is always ready to pick up his tools and assist in initiatives like this one.
