Residents of Northdale are urging the Msunduzi Municipality to take immediate action amid concerns over a potential illegal land invasion at Lotus Park, Pietermaritzburg. Video footage from the area shows individuals clearing thick bush and grass in the once-popular public space, marking out spots, and preparing sections of the land.
Locals describe Lotus Park as a former family-friendly recreational area that featured bride stands, swings, and was regularly used by children from nearby schools. They say the park has deteriorated significantly since around 1994 due to poor maintenance, allowing overgrown vegetation to take over and creating opportunities for misuse.
Residents suspect the individuals involved are from neighboring informal settlements, located just meters away, and may be attempting to extend those settlements into the park. Reports indicate that activity escalated recently: last week, plastic packets were tied to mark small plots throughout the area. Over the weekend, grass was chopped down in preparation for erecting structures. In response, parts of the park have been fenced off by community members to prevent further developments, particularly in sections directly opposite residents’ homes.
Ward councillors have engaged with the municipality on the issue. They held a meeting on Monday with legal representatives, the Msunduzi land invasion department, and security officials. During the engagement, videos, pictures, and occurrence book (OB) numbers from resident reports were presented to demonstrate a genuine threat to the municipal-owned land.
Councillors acknowledge the broader land challenges facing previously disadvantaged communities but warn that an invasion would drastically impact ratepayers in the area. Residents note that Northdale is already surrounded by three informal settlements, and a fourth would further decrease property values.
The Msunduzi Municipality has confirmed it is responding to the influx of reports and calls about the incident. Officials emphasized that occupying land without permission is illegal. The park is zoned as a public facility intended for community use, such as recreation or gatherings, not for building structures. The municipality stated it is taking action, including approaching the courts for orders, and warned that non-compliance could result in enforcement measures, potentially leading to arrests or jail time.
Residents continue to monitor the site closely and call for swift intervention to preserve the remaining green space in the neighborhood.