New security station partnership for safer beaches

A partnership between private security and KwaDukuza Municipality (KDM) has given beach policing a greater profile at two popular beaches.

Two flat-pack guard stations are now based at Thompson Bay beach and Salt Rock main beach, donated by Marshall Security.

An increase in security presence is much needed with the influx of visitors to the North Coast this holiday season.

The station at Thompson Bay will have a full-time guard in the coming months, while the unmanned Salt Rock station is intended for use as needed for roadblocks and other community safety measures. 

Moses Faya, KDM director for community safety welcomed the partnership.

“We feel this will make a big difference to the community and we hope the launch of this facility will assist us for a long time to come.”

The beaches of the North Coast have been under scrutiny recently with a spate of alcohol-fueled weekend parties leaving litter strewn around public areas.

“We want the community to know that we hear your complaints and we are constantly working on finding solutions at council,” said Jennifer Vallan, KDM community services chairperson.

“This partnership is making history and we hope to get more involvement from private stakeholders in the future to assist us as needed.”

Aside from the quick response aspect if a problem arises, the visibility of the station is designed to deter anyone who may have criminal intentions.

“Both stations are in strategic locations and we hope to see a reduction in crime this festive season as a result,” said Ivan Jacobs, Marshall Security North Coast director.

The stations are able to be disassembled and put up anywhere in order to keep up with demand and the community may soon see them across the North Coast if they prove to be successful.