Frustration is mounting among residents in Middelburg over what they describe as delayed and incomplete municipal work.

In one case, a trench left open for nearly three months after a burst water pipe was finally filled in last week. However, the paving at the property has still not been totally restored.
The homeowner has indicated that she may repair the paving herself, saying she cannot wait another three months for the municipality to complete the job.

Hazard near school fixed after 18 months

According to Ward Councillor San-Mari Wait paving and bricks displaced during a pipe repair approximately 18 months ago in Kogel Street forced children to walk past the damaged area daily. The site was repaired last week.

Pipes, holes and unfinished work across town

Residents have highlighted several other problem areas:
• A repaired water pipe at Viljoen Street that has remained protruding above ground for months.
• An excavation at the corner of Hoog and Viljoen streets that has been left open for months, with grass growing on the pile of soil.
• A large hole at the corner of John Magagula and Dam streets, where a leaking valve reportedly took four years to repair.

‘We pay every month, but services come weeks or months later.’

Residents say the situation highlights what they see as unequal accountability. While electricity is disconnected quickly for non-payment, residents who faithfully pay rates and taxes often wait weeks, sometimes months, for basic service delivery.

Ward councillor Johann Dyason added that although water leaks are frequently left unattended, the municipality responds quickly when major pipe bursts occur.

Councillor San-Marie Wait has also expressed concern, alleging that enquiries submitted to municipal departments often go unanswered, leaving councillors and residents without clarity on timelines or budget constraints.

• The municipal media office was approached for comment last week regarding these issues. At the time of publication, no response had been received.