FOLLOW UP: Metro addresses concerns regarding the state of Comet Indoor Sport Centre
The City of Ekurhuleni says cleaners have been allocated and minor repairs are underway at Comet Indoor Sport Centre, but major upgrades will not be prioritised this financial year due to budget constraints.
Concerns raised by club operators and sports enthusiasts over the poor state of Comet Indoor Sport Centre have prompted a response from the City of Ekurhuleni (CoE).
The facility, which accommodates up to 1 000 people weekly and is home to several community sports clubs, has come under fire for broken taps, leaking bathrooms, poor waste management, and general neglect.
Parents and coaches have warned that these conditions threaten the safety of participants and risk driving clubs away.
In its response, the CoE acknowledged the challenges at the facility, noting that two cleaners have been allocated to assist with cleaning and general upkeep.
“Work orders have been submitted to the Real Estate Department for minor repairs and the matter is receiving attention,” said Zweli Dlamini, spokesperson of CoE.
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However, the municipality confirmed that the centre has not been prioritised for major repairs and maintenance during the 2025/2026 financial year.
“Due to the limited budget, this facility has not been earmarked for major refurbishment in the current financial year. Engagements with parks and cemeteries are underway to streamline such matters. Based on the budget, the procurement process should resume in the second quarter,” he said.
The CoE highlighted that the vacant caretaker position has resulted in a lack of daily supervision and monitoring of maintenance standards at the centre.
“This has contributed to the slow response to ongoing issues. To address waste challenges, the Environment Resource Management and Waste Department has been contacted to ensure regular waste disposal at the venue.”
Regarding the structural concerns, the city stated that roof repairs were carried out during refurbishment in the 2023/2024 financial year. While a full replacement was recommended, budgetary constraints meant that only partial repairs were done.
“The contractor’s retention has since been paid, and the contract lapsed in the 2024/2025 financial year,” the CoE added.
Despite these commitments, clubs and parents remain concerned about the lack of immediate solutions, warning that the centre’s continued decline could affect sports participation in the area.
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