Working with Saps to create safer suburbs
The Townhill Community Police Forum (CPF) is supporting their local Saps’ crime fighting efforts by lending a helping hand to the station’s upkeep and maintenance.
Having been badly affected by the recent storms, the station is requiring some urgent attention and the CPF has come together to see how it can assist the Msunduzi Municipality, who owns the premises, in providing materials and expertise to attend to a number of repairs.
The planned interventions include upgrades and repairs to the infrastructure. “The toilets have already been fixed by a local plumbing company and the planned interventions include the upgrading of the entrance, the removal of mildew in some of the offices, securing electrical installations and general repairs,” the CPF said.
This is all being done through volunteers, and where required, funds have been provided for by the CPF.
“The slate roof however, is of major concern and so the CPF will be obtaining a report from a local expert to see how temporary measures may be put in place to keep the premises dry until the roof is fully repaired by the state.”
CPF chairperson James Martin said they want to help where they can towards the safety of the community. “As the Townhill precinct CPF, we recognise that the safety of our residents can only be maximised through strong collaborations between ourselves, the private security companies and the Saps.
“We understand the municipality is planning certain upgrades and the procurement of contractors may take some time, and so we have decided to get stuck in and help where we can. Given the manner in which we stood together during the July unrest, our area is viewed as one of the safer suburbs to live in and it’s a status we aim to maintain. It’s good for business and for property values and, obviously, for peace of mind for all the families living here,” said Martin.
Russel George, CPF deputy chairperson, thanked all the community members whose assistance has been pivotal in the station’s upkeep.
“We are grateful to our community members who have pulled together in support of a more cohesive and effective security regime within the Townhill precinct and wish to demonstrate our appreciation to the Saps for the work they do in our neighbourhoods.
“The closest helping hand is at the end of our own arm; so we are
implementing practical steps to complement the good work that is being done on the ground towards
keeping the lid on crime,” said George.