The big cleanup, one bite at a time

“There are exciting things to come and you will clearly see the difference,” said Dieter Fittkau, UIP security manager, when asked what we could expect from the newly formed Ballito Urban Improvement Programme (UIP).

Cautious to under-promise and rather over-deliver, Fittkau and precinct manager, Thierry Leclezio were reluctant, at this early stage, to reveal everything the UIP has up its sleeve for Ballito.

It was important to understand, they emphasised, that the UIP existed to assist – but not replace – the KwaDukuza municipality (KDM). Leclezio said rates and taxes would still pay for municipal services, while the fee paid towards the UIP was for supplementary services to public areas which are over and above that of the municipality including landscaping, security, general maintenance and assisting KDM to function more efficiently in those designated areas by integrating service plans within the UIP. These are the beachfront, Ballito Drive and the Business Park.

“An example of which is KDM repairing the beachfront lighting with the UIP protecting the lights and beachfront facilities and curbing vandalism,” said Leclezio.

In the meantime a 24 hour emergency number (086-111-1588) has been set up for Ballito residents and visitors to report any and all problems, including crime.

Fittkau said all calls are logged and recorded and patched through to the relevant departments for speedy reaction.

“The UIP is not an enforcement agency but people should call us to report crimes within the UIP area so that we can liaise with the police,” said Fittkau.

The ongoing issue of vagrants was a concern, which they will take up with KDM.

“Social crime prevention is part of our mandate but can only be pulled off in cooperation with SAPS, KDM and the conservation departments,” said Fittkau.

UIP CEO, Brian Wright cautioned people not to expect miracles but to have realistic expectations of the UIP. He said it took seven years to turn around Umhlanga, to make it what it is today and improving Ballito would also be a case of ‘eating the elephant one bite at a time’.

He noted that central to the success of the UIP would be building partnerships with the municipality as both the private and public sector has a vested interest in well managed public areas. This in turn builds confidence in Ballito, stimulating the local economy, creating employment and providing an enhanced experience for all when using Ballito’s public areas.

More information and updates are available at www.ballitouip.co.za

Do you want to receive news alerts via WhatsApp? Send us a WhatsApp message with your name and surname to 061 718 4438.

Please read our WhatsApp broadcast list disclaimer.
Join us on BBM at 59015786
Join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.