Alrode south businesses unite to tackle infrastructure woes
Over 27 Alrode South companies raised more than R135 000 to fix long-standing potholes in the area. The Better South Alrode initiative goes beyond road repairs, aiming to create jobs, tackle illegal dumping and restore vital infrastructure.
To tackle the persistent infrastructure issues in Alrode South, over 27 local businesses united to form the Better South Alrode campaign, raising over R135 000 to repair the area’s notorious potholes.
The initiative is a response to the ongoing struggle with damaged roads that has affected the business hub for several years.
Despite promises from the CoE to address the pothole problem by December 2023, the issue remains unresolved, prompting the business owners to take matters into their own hands.
As a result, the Better South Alrode initiative aims to fix the roads, give long-term temporary employment opportunities to residents and enhance the area’s safety and cleanliness.
Tackling more than just potholes
Besides repairing potholes, the companies involved have addressed other pressing issues affecting the area.
For example, they took turns cleaning up illegal dumping sites, with several companies involved in restoring the hub’s cleanliness.
A security company also joined the initiative, providing monitoring services to deter illegal dumping, a long-time problem.
According to the director of Sentinel Security, Gian Barbera, illegal dumping is a major issue in Alrode South, and they are doing everything they can to prevent it from ruining the environment.
“We’re not just using a quick fix, but applying long-lasting solutions to keep the area well-maintained. This is about ensuring Alrode South remains a hub where people can work and feed their families,” Barbera said.
Addressing other infrastructure issues
The businesses have also tackled other infrastructure concerns.
Recently, a fire broke out in the area, and the participating companies immediately responded by organising two firefighters to help contain the blaze.
The director of SA Polyhammers, Dean Fegan, said they do not just fix potholes.
“We’re addressing the broader needs of the community. The safety and well-being of the people who work and live here are our top priorities,” he said.
Additionally, a bus stop shelter collapsed, disrupting daily commutes.
In response, the businesses mobilised resources to repair it. One company volunteered to supply steel, while another will provide a forklift to help with heavy lifting.
Further support includes monetary donations, paint, concrete supplies and the expertise required for the shelter’s restoration.
Community support and local leadership
The initiative has received positive feedback from Alrode South Clr Samantha Nair, who expressed support for the project, praising the businesses’ proactive approach to addressing the challenges.
“It’s a fantastic example of how businesses can give back to the communities in which they operate. More communities should follow their example. While residents pay for services, it is vital to understand that the city cannot do everything. As citizens, we should take responsibility and become the change we want to see,” she said.
The manager of roads in the city, Anthony Mulder, said the city has received and started to paint some of JG Strijdom Road in response to the campaign’s appeal to help with road painting and markings.
A call to action
The companies behind Better South Alrode are determined to continue their work until they have fixed all the potholes and infrastructure issues.
The campaign is open to any businesses in the area that wish to contribute, whether through donations, resources or volunteer work.
To join them, call Dean Fegan on 071 482 0051 or Alec Tsombanakis on 082 454 4951.
As the initiative continues to grow, it is a powerful reminder that even in the face of municipal challenges, businesses can unite to bring about positive change and improve the communities they serve.
