The DA in Maluti-a-Phofung Local Municipality is outraged at the absolute disregard to ensure the upkeep of the Harrismith Public Swimming Pool. The public pool was once the flourishing heart of the Jewel of the Free State, with crystal clear water, mowed lawns and immaculate changing rooms. This swimming pool was the stepping stone for many swimming champions who trained there.
Under the careless watch of the municipality, the public pool has been turned into a filthy, sickening and dangerous public space, for which the municipality needs to take responsibility.
The damage includes, but is not limited to:
- Every removable item has been stolen.
- The pool houses floating refuse creating a health hazard.
- Outskirts of the yard are used as illegal dumping sites.
- The baby pool is a cesspool.
- The changing rooms are utilised as public toilets with urine and faeces everywhere.
- Abandoned buildings have been turned into recreational spaces for drug addicts and makeshift homes for the homeless.
- The risk of drowning is high, as the entire area is unfenced.
Unlike the Maluti-a-Phofung Local Municipality, the Western Cape government has prioritised public swimming pools and has taken immense pride in its sense of community. Well-maintained public spaces improve and encourage healthy lifestyles. Public swimming pools form part of recreational activities and are often the gathering place for sports clubs, charities and community organisations.
The DA will write a letter to the Municipal Manager, Sam Makhubu, as well as the Free State Department: Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation MEC, Limakatso Mahase, and demand that immediate action is taken. The municipality has a responsibility to either restore this rubbish dump or fill up the pool to prevent drowning and demolish the abandoned buildings. If the municipality lacks financial resources, the land must be sold. If no action is taken, the DA will file criminal charges against the MM for failing to ensure the safety of Maluti-a-Phofung residents.