Rethabiseng Sports Grounds in Bronkhorstspruit is set for a major overhaul through a R1.7m private sector investment aimed at restoring the facility for residents.

The upgrades are through a partnership between the City of Tshwane and Canyon Coal. The mine has invested R1.7m for the refurbishment under its Social and Labour Plan commitments.

The Social and Labour Plan framework of the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources seeks to promote socio-economic development in communities affected by mining activities. Through this framework, mining companies are required to make meaningful investments that contribute to sustainable community development and improved social infrastructure.

MMC outlines project scope and local jobs

MMC for Community and Social Development Services Palesa Modise said that over the past year, her department and the Economic Development and Spatial Planning Department have engaged with the mine on implementing its Social and Labour Plan commitments.

She said following the required processes, local construction firm Sintha Trading and Projects has been appointed to undertake the refurbishment work, sourcing local labour to create temporary employment during construction.

Modise noted that Rethabiseng Sports Grounds remains the only dedicated sports facility serving the community, but it has deteriorated due to extensive use, vandalism, security challenges and inadequate maintenance. She said the project seeks to restore the facility to a functional, safe condition.

Planned infrastructure improvements

The scope of work includes:

– Repairing all electrical installations, including replacing the internal fluorescent light fittings and light bulbs in the clubhouse.

– Refurbishing the existing double roller door at the changing rooms.

– Installing security gates.

– Repairing the ablution facilities.

– Resurfacing and fencing the existing netball and basketball courts.

– Paving the walkways between the clubhouse and sport courts.

– Repairing the clubhouse ceiling.

– Constructing a guardhouse structure.

– Repairing and replacing stolen panels of the ClearVu perimeter fence.

To ensure effective implementation, accountability and oversight, officials from Social Development, Economic Development and technical representatives from the mine have established a project management team. Modise said this team will monitor progress throughout the planning, implementation and completion stages while ensuring regular reporting to relevant stakeholders and the community.

Temporary closure ahead of October handover

The sports facility will be temporarily closed for the duration of construction. The project is expected to be completed and officially handed over to the community on October 31.

The metro welcomes the investment and thanks Canyon Coal for its contribution to strengthening community sport infrastructure.

Modise said the partnership demonstrates the positive impact that collaboration between government and the private sector can have in improving public facilities and creating opportunities for local residents.

The city says it remains committed to engaging with partners and investors to secure similar interventions aimed at revitalising other sport and recreational facilities that have deteriorated due to vandalism, ageing infrastructure and limited resources. Thereby, ensuring communities continue to have access to safe, functional recreational spaces.

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