NMBM turns dumpsite into wellness an playground park – NMBM

Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality celebrated the start of the spring season in style by launching a tree planting project and opening a new children and outdoor gym park in Ward 55, Motherwell.

The event was also in celebration of Arbor Week, a week dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of tree planting to improve the environment.

The event was officiated by Member of the Mayoral Committee for Public Health,  Cllr Lance Grootboom. Speaking at the event, Cllr Grootboom said the 1st of September was an important day for us as it is always a reminder about the importance of taking care of our environment. 

“Two significant things happened today, we planted trees, some will be donated to members of the public to plant at their homes. We also opened a safe park and outdoor gym that will be used to improve the lifestyle of the people of this area. We are pleased because we will not only encourage healthy lifestyles, we have also created a safe place for children to play,” said MMC Grootboom. 

Cllr Grootboom said the project would not end in Ward 55. 

“In total we have done 13 parks that we plan to open this month, the Krebe Park is just one of them and it used to be a dumpsite. All the programmes of opening these parks will include environmental awareness, planting and donation of trees to the public. If we are to achieve a caring, safe and environmental friendly City, projects like these must be high on our priority list,” added Cllr Grootboom. 

One of the residents of the Ward, Ntombintsundu Matomela said she was happy that their children will have a safe place to play.

“This is a good initiative. Now we will be able to use this park to exercise while monitoring children as they play. I just wish that fellow residents own this park and protect it. We understand that other Wards are still waiting in the line, now that we have it, we need to protect it,” said Matomela.

She said the usage of the gym facilities will go a long way in improving the general health of the people of the Ward.