Phoenix councillors praised the eThekwini Municipality’s commitment to implement more parks, recreation and cultural integrated programmes in the area.
During a full council meeting on Thursday, 26 June, the municipality said that they would invest over R25 million into these programmes to foster social cohesion and economic prosperity. The decision serves as another major win for the residents of Phoenix following a successful protest contesting the Eastbury Grounds from being turned into a residential zone.
Democratic Liberal Congress (DLC) Leader Patrick Pilllay supported the integrated programmes and said: “This will bring about the promotion of social cohesion, economic prosperity and unity in diversity. The city is certainly moving in the right direction in achieving its Integrated Development Plans (IDP). These programmes are necessary and will certainly assist in the collaboration of various stakeholders and communities.”
The city said in accordance with their IDP, the key mandate for Plan 6 is to embrace
heritage, arts and cultural diversity. “The aim of this plan is to create a city where people
engage in creative interactions to promote social cohesion, economic prosperity and
unity in diversity.”
“As part of parks, recreation and culture, the strategy of implanting these integrated
programmes is to ensure that the existing infrastructure is used for the benefit of all.
These programmes carry deliverables of promoting well known artist, local artists,
exhibitors through various social festivals and to give opportunities to local business
vendors to sell their products as part of stimulating economic growth.”
The executive director of community services advised of the following additional programmes which will also be implemented by PRC in the new financial year: Parks, Recreation and cultural interdepartmental programmes, social cohesion, youth special programmes, arts and heritage events, libraries and heritage department programmes, sports development and recreation programmes, and arts and cultures.
The city committed R25 673 530.00 for the 2025/26 financial year, R22 763 320.00 in 2026/27; and R23 890 350.00 in 2027/28.
