TZANEEN – Following the Democratic Alliance’s (DA) intervention that halted an unauthorised soccer field project at Jetty 3 at the Tzaneen Dam, the development of an intended picnic site is now also pending.

The Greater Tzaneen Municipality (GTM) provided the Herald with feedback on the matter after a meeting between the GTM’s engineering director and Ward 14 Cllr René Pöhl.

According to Pöhl, the municipality has committed to compacting the soil at the site to prevent erosion and ensure the area remains stable.

“No tree planting will take place for now, and no permanent structures will be allowed due to the registered water canal servitude that runs through the property. Security and access control at the main gate were also identified as priorities, while residents’ inputs on possible future uses of the site were discussed, ensuring the community has a voice in what happens going forward,” she said.

The feedback comes after the DA raised concerns after municipal employees had begun clearing the land without official approval, prompting community members to alert DA Cllr Chrisma Bredenkamp.

Investigations revealed that the project was intended to create a soccer field for municipal staff.

The DA argued the project was unlawful, noting that the site contains a registered servitude under the National Water Act, which protects the Pusela Water Canal. The canal supplies water to nearby farms.

During the clearing, a municipal backhoe allegedly caused damage to the canal,

leading to water losses and repair costs

for local farmers, Bredenkamp said at the time.

Municipal spokesperson Neville Ndlala explained that the project was aimed at providing the Municipal Empires football team with a safe training ground.

Existing fields, including school and golf course facilities, were deemed unsuitable or unsafe.

The municipality is now exploring alternative sites for the team.

Ndlala denied that bylaws were breached, but proper community consultation had been lacking.

He said the GTM wants to ensure both safety and broader community access before any development proceeds.