Laaities in Leonsdale can finally feel safer thanks to a new project which has seen floodlights light up all the council courts.
Ward councillor Franchesca Walker says the unique project was inspired by scared residents who raised concerns about the lack of lighting resulting in an increase in street robberies.
“The problem started with the vandalism and theft of the cables of the existing floodlights which plunged the community into darkness,” she says.
“Residents were very afraid because parents going to work were being robbed and children were unable to leave their homes after sunset.”
Walker approached the City of Cape Town’s electricity department.
“I went to them and asked if there was a budget. They said there was funds and we worked on a plan to make sure we don’t deal with vandalism and that the money spent on the infrastructure results in real change.
“For this reason I asked them to investigate whether it was possible to instead erect the lights on the council courts to prevent vandalism and was overjoyed when they said it was possible.”
After the contractor was appointed, sukkeling parents in the area were employed temporarily to help safeguard the workers across 14 council flats so the work could get underway.
“The lights were officially switched on three weeks ago and already there is a drop in crime. People are already feeling safer in the community. The children are able to play,” Walker concludes.