Pompidelik Community Initiative calls for action regarding the deteriorating condition of Alberton Dam’s public facilities and children’s play area.

This call also brings many questions about why restoration efforts have not progressed despite years of discussions and growing public concern.

A community-driven petition has now been launched through the Pompidelik Community Initiative to gather support for a formal request to the City of Ekurhuleni for urgent written feedback, approval, and a clear timeline regarding the restoration of the facilities.

According to organiser Janine Strydom, the petition seeks to encourage collaboration between the City and the community, allowing reputable companies, sponsors, contractors, and residents to assist lawfully and responsibly in restoring the area.

Community frustration

The latest development follows a firm follow-up email sent to the City by Janine, who expressed growing frustration over the lack of progress and communication.

“To be honest, the lack of feedback and progress is extremely frustrating. Since 2022, promises and talks have been made, yet four years later, the area is still not where it should be,” said Janine.

She added that the community is ready and willing to assist with the restoration project but requires the City’s approval and cooperation.

“We are ready, willing, and equipped to help get this fixed properly. We just need the City to stop delaying and allow the community to move forward. The goal is simple: we want answers, a clear timeline, and permission for the community to assist in properly restoring the play area and public facilities. We cannot keep waiting while the area deteriorates further,” she said.

Concerns over removal of play equipment

Community concerns intensified after receiving communication from the City confirming that the existing playground equipment would be dismantled and removed due to safety concerns.

While residents acknowledge the importance of protecting public safety, many are concerned that the removal of the equipment is occurring without a clearly communicated restoration plan.

In correspondence to the City, Pompidelik stated that they fully understand the need to remove unsafe structures but remain concerned that no approval, direction, feedback, or timeline has been provided to facilitate restoration efforts.

Residents have stressed that they are not approaching the matter casually and have already identified reputable contractors, skilled professionals, and companies willing to assist with the work.

Questions put to the City

In the latest communication, the Pompidelik community initiative requested urgent answers to several questions, including:

• Why is approval taking so long?

• What is still outstanding from the City’s side?

• Why is the community not being allowed to assist with the restoration work?

• What process must be followed for approval to be granted without further unnecessary delays?

• Who is the correct person or department responsible for giving final approval?

Residents emphasised that their intention is not to work against the municipality but to work alongside it in restoring a valued community asset.

City of Ekurhuleni official response

On May 25, the City of Ekurhuleni provided feedback regarding the matter.

According to the City, responsibility for matters relating to the children’s play area and public facilities falls under the Community Services Department’s Parks and Cemeteries Division.

The City explained that before any repairs, sponsorships, donations, or restoration work can be considered, a formal written proposal must be submitted to the Head of Department: Community Services.

Upon receipt, the proposal will be processed in accordance with Council policies and procedures. The City indicated that feedback on approval or non-approval would be provided after the process is completed.

The City further explained that it operates under a Grants, Donations, Sponsorships and Gifts Policy, which regulates sponsorships and donations that support municipal objectives.

They also stated that any individual, company, or organisation is welcome to submit a written proposal, and that each application will be assessed on its own merits and processed in accordance with established procedures.

Site inspection request declined

The community also requested that a site inspection be arranged with the relevant municipal officials to assess concerns firsthand.

However, the City advised that no site inspections can be arranged before the necessary approvals and processes have been completed.

This response has added to residents’ frustration, with many believing that a site visit could help identify practical solutions and accelerate the restoration process.

Safety measures and equipment removal

Addressing concerns about the damaged play equipment, the City confirmed that the structures will be dismantled and removed from the site for public safety.

According to the municipality, the equipment will be stored at a municipal depot until financial and material resources become available for repairs and reinstatement.

The City stated that the decision is intended to prevent injuries and ensure the area remains safe for public use.

Community calls for partnership

Despite their frustrations, community members continue to emphasise that they are seeking cooperation rather than confrontation.

Pompidelik said the community believes significant progress can be achieved if the City partners with residents and utilises available resources.

“Our intention is not to work against the City, but to work with the City. The continued lack of progress and communication is frustrating, especially when the community is ready and willing to assist.”

Janine added that the community is asking the municipality to allow residents, sponsors, and reputable companies to help restore Alberton Dam and its public facilities in a responsible, lawful, and properly managed manner.

“We believe this can be done much quicker if the City works with the community and allows the available resources to be used.”

Petition gains momentum

The newly launched petition aims to demonstrate the level of community support for the restoration project and strengthen calls for urgent action.

Janine says the information collected through the petition will be used solely for purposes related to the initiative and formal communication with the City of Ekurhuleni.

As residents continue to rally behind the campaign, many hope the petition will lead to meaningful engagement, clear timelines, and tangible progress toward restoring one of Alberton’s most valued public recreational spaces.

For more information on the petition, residents can visit the Alberton Dam Restoration Petition – Pompidelik Community Initiative. 
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