THE City confirmed that beaches north of the uMngeni River, up to Salt Rock, will remain closed throughout the long weekend.

eThekwini Municipality’s spokesperson, Msawakhe Mayisela appealed to the public not to embark on any activities on the beachfront until the water quality is determined to be safe.

Beaches were closed in July as a precautionary measure after a chemical spill from the UPL warehouse in Cornubia. The city said the spillage contaminated the Ohlange River and the uMhlanga Lagoon.

Related article: ‘Experts give all-clear for beaches to open’, says UPL

“The city is aware of the significance of this long weekend, but it has a responsibility of guarding against anything that poses a threat to the public and tourists. At this point in time, eThekwini is awaiting the final and signed off report from UPL’s specialists.

“This requirement came out of a workshop with UPL and their specialists on September 8. The submissions received prior to this workshop were inadequate. They did not reference the spill or site in question and were riddled with errors about the concentrations of toxins. In some cases, the submissions were unsigned and, as a result, they were unacceptable and rejected on that basis. A consolidated report is expected early next week. After which, an independent peer review process will take place,” Mayisela said.

He noted the final report on the opening of beaches would be made available to the public at the same time it is sent for peer review.