Note to Editors: Please see attached English and Afrikaans soundbites by Cllr Jessica Nel and Sesotho soundbite by Cllr Kabelo Moreeng. See attached pictures here, here, and here.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Matjhabeng has formally escalated the severe environmental neglect in Allanridge by demanding written explanations from the Acting Municipal Manager and engaging with the Director of Matjhabeng Parks and Recreation to initiate an urgent, large-scale clean-up intervention.
Although environmental neglect in Matjhabeng Local Municipality is widespread, the situation in Allanridge, with overgrown foliage and overall dilapidation, has reached an unacceptable level. What was once known as one of the most beautiful towns in the Goldfields, with well-maintained parks and flowers, is now characterised by weeds, invasive shrubs, rodents, pests, dilapidated buildings, and spaces that provide cover for criminals.
We seek urgent accountability from the municipality for the prolonged absence of municipal workers from the Parks and Recreation Department in Allanridge.
No grass-cutting or tree-trimming has been done for years. Workers from the Community Workers Project (CWP) have not been visible or effective in and around the town. Previous excuses included the fact that Parks and Recreation workers lacked equipment such as spades, forks, and saws, while the tractors and cutting accessories were broken—excuses that no longer justify the scale of the neglect.
It is not just the neglect of the overgrown foliage, but also the failing sewerage infrastructure, inaccessible roads, joblessness, and the lack of business development (as promised so many times by the Local Economic Development) that are adding to the community’s hardship.
Issues like open sewerage lines in the middle of the road are marked but continue to pose a serious danger for children who can drown, as it is close to the school. These hazards have remained unattended for months.
The town hall has been closed by the Department of Labour for several years due to safety regulations. Grass and shrubs are severely obstructing visibility at intersections and encroaching onto the roads.
I will also arrange meetings with businesses and stakeholders to discuss practical, sustainable solutions to clean, rehabilitate, and improve the environment in Allanridge.
The DA is a committed advocate for environmental health and safety and will continue to combat the neglect and pollution of our environment.
Allanridge ought not to be the orphan of Matjhabeng Local Municipality, and municipal operations must be prioritised for this town. A clean and healthy environment will deliver a healthy community.