Waterval Stadium to be completed after eight years
Despite challenges, significant progress has been made and the completion of Waterval Stadium is now within reach.
LIMPOPO – The long-awaited, multi-million rand Waterval Stadium is set to be completed by the end of June, marking a significant milestone for residents of Waterval and the surrounding areas.
According to the Makhado Municipality’s latest budget, an additional R4m has been allocated to a new contractor to finish the project, which began eight years ago.
The transformation of the local sports grounds into a community stadium started in early 2017 but faced numerous delays.
These delays were primarily due to conflicts between the Makhado Municipality and the contractors responsible for phases two and three of the project, resulting in prolonged disagreements and setbacks.
Despite these challenges, significant progress has been made recently, and the completion of Waterval Stadium is now within reach.
The new contractor’s responsibilities include supplying and delivering materials and labour for paving blocks at the stadium.
Once completed, this facility will serve as a venue for sporting events, cultural gatherings, concerts, and community celebrations, becoming a central hub for the community.
Ntsako Mashimbyi, the founder of the local team Waterval Real Stars, voiced his frustration with the extended delays. The incomplete stadium has made it difficult for local teams to adapt during trials, as they have been using dusty sports grounds.
“Our players endure long journeys just to practice, and for those who are still attending school, it’s a constant struggle to make it to practice sessions. With many young people in our community falling prey to drugs and alcohol, having the stadium would provide a safe haven, keeping them away from the streets,” he said.
According to the Makhado Municipality’s 2021/22 Integrated Development Plan, the tender value for the construction of phase three of Waterval Stadium amounted to R28.4m. An older budget document indicates that R11m was set aside for phase two in 2018/19, with a further R9m allocated to the project in 2020/21.
Municipal spokesperson Louis Bobodi, confirmed that the project is now in its final phase.
“The contractor is currently establishing the site, and the stadium will be completed at the end of June.”
Approached for comment, the new contractor declined to disclose his name and company details but confirmed the project’s commencement.
“We are going to finish it in record time, and I am currently at the site,” he said.
