Barnard Stadium has been closed for safety reasons after structural damage was picked up during routine maintenance.
The Valke Rugby Union, which uses the stadium as its headquarters, as well as Kempton Park Rugby Club, had been evacuated from the building and are working remotely, said Themba Gadebe, spokesperson for the metro.
“The rugby field and side pavilions are still used by the clubs. At this stage a time frame on when the stadium will be ready for use again cannot be given since the extent of the necessary remedial work has not been established,” he added.
“Further communication will be made when a final engineer’s report is available.”
According to Gadebe, some of the main pavilion pillars have shifted from where they were originally and this was identified as a safety risk for the users and employees.
A structural engineer was appointed to conduct a scientific assessment to establish the extent of the defects and to advise on a course of action.
The engineer indicated the following study would be undertaken after which a final remedial report with costs would be given:
• Stability – bracing and support of the entire building.
• Connections – corrosion and plastic instability.
• Overall member strength – excessive deflection.
• General safe practices – hazards.
“Following the assessment, the engineer advised the City to temporarily close the facility as the situation was identified as a safety risk and as such recommended the facility be temporarily closed until such time that these defects are resolved,” said Gadebe.
