In a constant bustling and vibrant metropolitan such as Joburg, with high rising buildings, the influx of job seekers and newly developed residential areas, parks play a pivotal role in bringing green and friendly spaces to communities.
Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ), the entity responsible for championing greening in the City of Joburg, including designated open spaces, continues to make tangible strides in transforming derelict spaces into safe and liveable parks for its people.
Litchi Street Park in Protea Glen is the latest park developed after just under a month of the launch of Rebone Park in Naledi, Ext 2, Soweto.
The concept of the park takes direct inspiration from the Protea caffra, South Africa’s national flower. The Protea is an incredibly beautiful fynbos which attracts various birds and insects in its splendor, an apt representation of bringing residents of Protea Glen into a green space of oneness with nature.
Litchi Street Park, which will be launched on Friday, 22 April 2022 at 09h30, is situated at 21786, Litchi Street in Protea Glen, Ext 28 in Soweto.
The park was developed at a cost of R2m and created 11 job opportunities through the Extended Public Works Programme (EPWP) from the beginning of August 2021 to date. An estimated R200k was generated into the local economy through the appointment of local SMME’s and sourcing material from local businesses.
The park features include large open lawns, a children’s play area with rubberized surfaces, a picnic area, free outdoor gym equipment, a multi-purpose court, irrigation system and park furniture. Communities in proximity of the park are encouraged to visit it regularly while taking ownership of their park.
Councillor Ronald Harris, the Member of the Mayoral Committee for Community Development in the City of Joburg said, “This is the second park handover in the past two months, which is an indication that we’re serious about brining parks to our people. We appeal to everyone to please look after their parks.”
Research has shown that the presence of trees, green spaces and parks, significantly reduce stress in people living, more so in a city such as Joburg. Communities form a strong bond and develop a sense of belonging and caring for one another.
ENDS
Issued by on behalf of Councillor Ronald Harris, the Member of the Mayoral Committee for Community Development in the City of Joburg
Media enquiries can be directed to: Noeleen Mattera: Media Relations Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo T: 011 712-6722 E: nmattera@jhbcityparks.com; www.jhbcityparksandzoo.com; Twitter: @Joburgparkszoo; Instagram: @joburgparkszoo; Facebook: The Johannesburg Zoo; Joburg Parks
21/04/2022
