Portaloos to welcome Umdloti’s tourists

The holiday season is upon us and the Dolphin Coast’s beaches are getting geared up for the influx of visitors.

Unfortunately, Umdloti beach is one of those that is not quite ready, having no toilet facilities for beachgoers.

In the meantime, portable toilets were put in place last Thursday.

Also read: KwaDukuza beach toilets in dire need of upgrade

Ethekwini Ward 58 councillor Geoff Pullan said the lifeguard building was demolished two years ago as it was unsafe.

“Pity municipality didn’t leave the toilets part,” he said.

“This year the northern loos were threatened by wave action and the slab cracked. The whole building had to be demolished.”

One resident, who asked to remain anonymous, said they were fed up with the situation.

“We have had very embarrassed-looking people come up and knock on our front door to ask if they can use our toilets. This is just completely unacceptable for a tourist town!”

Since the demolition, lifeguards have been carrying out their duties from a container cabin.

According to Pullan the container has its own ablution facilities so the lifeguards at least have a place to go.

He said complicating the matter was the fact that the city recently made a decision not to build on the seaward side of the road, as the ocean has taken out much of the previously installed infrastructure.

“Considering that we are a touristy, beach municipality, it is incredible that we have not made more timeous arrangements.

“No amount of prodding and cajoling makes the city move any faster.”

Ethekwini had not responded at the time of publication.

Do you want to receive news alerts via WhatsApp? Send us a WhatsApp message (not an sms) with your name and surname to 061 718 4438.

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