Vandals destroy clubhouse in Standerton
Local councillor said the possibility of renting out municipal properties was high on the agenda at a recent council meeting.
The conditions at the Standerton Tennis Club are beyond the pale. Shattered clubhouse windows and the pungent smell of fire were evident during a visit on May 19.
Homeless people had seemingly used the facilities. The is evidence of vandalism to the stove, fridge, pre-paid meter and vending machine.
Mathew Khumalo, the tennis coach, has tried to organise a lease agreement with the Lekwa Municipality since 2016.
Wilma Venter, a Freedom Front Plus councillor, was also at the club.
“I was here a year ago. It is much worse now,” Venter said.
Khumalo now removes the nets after practices to safeguard his property. He wants to form a committee to establish membership, such as those at the golf club.
Venter said the possibility of renting out municipal properties was high on the agenda at a recent council meeting.
“Standerton is the only town in the Gert Sibande District with tennis courts,” Khumalo said.
His academy has 35 talented tennis players, with most faring well in Mpumalanga.
Venter undertook to arrange a meeting with the municipal manager and the Lekwa Department of Economic Development.
“We are blessed to have this facility,” Khumalo added.
Kasselman Security Services removed the litter near the courts. Well-wishers, parents and stakeholders helped to make play possible.
