Alberton Record previously reported that the Tokoza Youth Centre had fallen into disrepair, with parts of the structure collapsed, overgrown grounds, and allegations of a water leak inside the building.

Residents also raised concerns about the lack of maintenance and its impact on young people who relied on the centre for skills development and recreational activities.

According to city spokesperson Zweli Dlamini, the municipality became aware of the collapse on January 12, 2025. The initial damage was identified as cracks in a beam at the main entrance, which later worsened.

“This is associated with inclement weather due to heavy rains. The first observation was due to a brick wall beam crack at the main entrance. Subsequently, after a while, the entire roof collapsed, causing structural damage, damage to electrical works, plumbing works and other related building items,” Dlamini said.

An assessment was conducted after the incident, and an insurance claim was initiated. The city is still awaiting a report from its risk and insurance division.

“The assessment was conducted after the incident. The insurance claim was then initiated and the assessor from finance, whereby building plans were provided for further assessment and such a report is expected from the Finance Risk and Insurance Claim Division soon,” Dlamini said.

While there were signs of attempted vandalism at the back of the building, Dlamini said this did not contribute to the collapse.

“There was an attempted break-in to steal electrical cable, but that could not have contributed to the collapse,” Dlamini added.

Facility closed, no budget allocated

The youth centre falls under the city’s Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture (SRAC) department, which is responsible for its maintenance.

Dlamini confirmed that the facility had already been closed and was awaiting refurbishment.

According to Dlamini, no maintenance budget was allocated in the 2023/24 and 2024/25 financial years due to its condition and pending insurance processes.

He further said no formal complaints were recorded prior to the collapse, as the facility was already closed.

“As and when required, a visual assessment is done by the caretaker to identify hazards or vandalism, but the facility is not in use,” he said.

Grass cutting and water leak addressed

Responding to concerns about overgrown grass, the city said maintenance had been limited due to the facility’s closure, with priority previously given to the tennis court area.

Grass cutting was carried out in late February with assistance from Metro Parks, and the facility has now been included on the maintenance priority list.

“The department is finalising the signing of the Instruction to Perform Work (IPW) with the contractor before the end of the month,” Dlamini said.

On reports of a water leak, believed to be from a geyser, the city confirmed that the water supply to the building was shut off after the collapse.

“Customer Relations Management has instructed the Water and Sanitation department to close the water supply to the facility until it is functional.”

Security, investigation and way forward

Dlamini confirmed that security guards are currently deployed at the site, with one on duty during the day and another at night.

An internal investigation into the matter has been conducted.

However, the facility’s future remains uncertain and depends on the outcome of the insurance process.

“The department is still awaiting the insurance claim and allocation of the contractor based on the recommendation by the assessor,” Dlamini said, adding that follow-ups were made on January 26 and March 18.

A meeting with the relevant departments was scheduled for March 19 to address insurance-related challenges and provide feedback.

“The matter is now an insurance issue,” Dlamini stated.

The city has not yet confirmed whether the youth centre will be repaired or rebuilt, nor has it provided a clear timeline for when the facility will be restored for community use.

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