Media Statement
Tuesday, 10 February 2026
No Embargo
Little Falls Ridge and Resort to undergo major clean-up and safety operation on Friday, 13 February 2026
Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ), through its Environmental Conservation Department (ECD), will undertake a major clean-up, rehabilitation, and safety intervention at Little Falls Ridge, Helderkruin Ridge, and Little Falls Resort on Friday, 13 February 2026, from 9 am, following sustained community complaints relating to safety, homelessness, and maintenance challenges.
JCPZ confirms that on-site preparatory work commenced on Monday, 9 February 2026, and will continue throughout the week ahead of the Mega Blitz.
The operation will be supported by two cooperatives (26 workers), one contractor (10 staff), and JCPZ internal teams, with a coordinated safety presence including 30 JCPZ Rangers, 7 Protected Areas officials, JMPD by-law enforcement, the South African Police Service (SAPS), and the Gauteng Crime Prevention Unit.
Planned work includes mowing and general grounds and trail maintenance, river and waterfall clean-up, alien invasive plant eradication, building maintenance, water quality testing, signage improvements, the clearing of abandoned structures and recycling material, and the installation of public-use infrastructure, including centralising a braai area.
JCPZ will also undertake targeted clearing along the perimeter. However, residents are advised that this is a conservation area, and the perimeter will therefore be cut only three metres from the fence line to protect valuable indigenous plant material found in abundance across the site.
The Managing Director of JCPZ, Mr Thanduxolo Mendrew, stated, “Little Falls Ridge is a public conservation asset, not a lawless space. This Mega Blitz is about restoring safety, dignity, and order — and we are calling on residents to stand with us in protecting it.”
JCPZ reiterates that lasting improvement requires partnership with the community.
Residents are urged to avoid anti-social behaviour in the facility, safeguard public infrastructure, and report criminal activity, vandalism, illegal occupation and related transgressions to JMPD on 011 375 5911.
Private security companies operating in the area are encouraged to use the facility as a visible base point during patrols, to act as a deterrent.
JCPZ remains committed to protecting Little Falls Ridge and Resort as a valued environmental, recreational, and conservation asset for residents.
Ends
Issued by:
Thanduxolo Mendrew
Managing Director: Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ)
Media Enquiries:
Jenny Moodley
Spokesperson and Intergovernmental and Media Engagement JCPZ
082 803 0748. E: jmoodley@jhbcityparks.com
