Persistent complaints bring an end to public access

The Pet Dam in De Bruinpark, Ermelo, has been officially closed to the public after years of complaints about public drinking, littering, broken glass, and general disturbances.

Residents have repeatedly expressed frustration over weekend revellers leaving a mess and causing noise in the surrounding areas.

According to community activist and PA member Silvija Breytenbach, the move by the Msukaligwa Local Municipality (MLM) comes after years of complaints and community frustration.

“After persistent advocacy and pressure, we finally succeeded in having the Pet Dam closed off,” Breytenbach told Highvelder.

Weekend revellers shift locations

However, despite the preemptive steps taken by the municipality, the problems have not disappeared.

Weekend gatherings have shifted to nearby areas, including the Ermelo Sport Inn, where noise, litter, and public drinking continue.

Community split over Pet Dam closure, with party-goers expressing frustration

Although most people living near the Pet Dam are extremely happy over the decision, not everyone supports the closure, however.

Several residents took to social media to express frustration, arguing that the Pet Dam is a municipal facility meant for everyone.

Mark Hill commented: “As a municipal recreational facility, it is supposed to have open access to any ratepayer in Ermelo. What gives you the right to decide who may or may not have access?”

Others accused critics of the gatherings of being overly strict. ”We will just move to Douglas Dam,” wrote Nate Bovungana, suggesting the party-goers would simply take their activities elsewhere.

Some supported the idea of relocating gatherings further away to avoid disturbing residents. “Great idea! There where you can’t disturb other people’s peace!” responded Maryke Claassen.

Another resident, Sihle S-tido Dlamini, questioned why Ermelo should be treated differently from other towns: “It can only be in Ermelo where this kind of nonsense happens. In other towns, there are chilling spots closer to residential areas. Bethal Dam, Secunda, Evander, all are accessible to the public. What’s so special about people living next to Pet Dam?”

Municipal spokesperson Mandla Zwane, previously said that teams are working to maintain public spaces despite limited resources, and residents are encouraged to report disturbances via the municipal call centre.

More details, including potential plans for controlled access and new recreational areas, will appear in the upcoming print edition.