Kyalami refuse site reopens after intensive clean-up operation
With councillor David Foley on site and Pikitup stepping in for an intensive clean–up, residents are being urged to follow the rules to keep the facility running smoothly.
The Kyalami garden refuse site was temporarily closed for three days, from May 19 to May 21, as Pikitup carried out an intensive clean-up operation.
The closure followed ongoing concerns raised by residents and Ward 94 councillor David Foley regarding refuse overload and improper dumping at the facility. This development came after earlier complaints on May 12 about illegal dumping and the excessive build-up of waste, including rubble and furniture.
Read more: Clean-up drive brings Noordwyk together on Human Rights Day
The shutdown, initially planned for one day, was extended after Pikitup realised the scale of accumulated waste required additional time to properly restore the site.
Ward 94 councillor David Foley, who was present during the clean-up, said the extended closure was necessary given the volume of work.
He noted that while progress had been made, continued oversight was essential to prevent a repeat of the situation.
“Happy, yes, but the production line must be monitored like a well-oiled machine with constant checks and balances,” said Foley.
He also raised concerns about residents paying Pikitup employees for assistance when offloading waste.
“Please do not offer money in this regard. If someone helps you and you give them a tip through gratitude, that is acceptable.”
Pikitup spokesperson Anthony Selepe clarified that surrounding garden refuse sites such as Marlboro, Woodmead, and Bryanston remained operational, though some functioned on a reduced scale depending on maintenance requirements.
Also read: Pikitup addresses three-day Kyalami Garden Refuse Site shutdown
Explaining how Pikitup manages overloads, Selepe said, “The site is temporarily closed for a day or two, waste is collected daily for disposal, and we also add resources from other sites to clear accumulated waste.
This is done as and when possible, when the site has reached maximum capacity.”
Selepe further urged residents to comply with signage at refuse sites to ensure only acceptable waste types were dumped, noting that non-compliance placed additional strain on operations.
“The signage is installed to guide residents on what is accepted. Publishing the matter will go a long way in assisting to educate residents about what type of waste and which quantities are acceptable at such sites.”
The Kyalami site has since reopened, with Pikitup expected to continue monitoring operations. Residents have been encouraged to adhere to guidelines to prevent further disruptions.
Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration!
