The Blue Flag is an international standard of good quality. It was hoisted on Pennington Beach on November 29, thus marking the end to an initiative from community-based groups, local businesses and individuals in the town of Pennington.
Their commitment to uplifting their town are commendable and stand as a fine example to residents across Umdoni, proving that community involvement and social activism can change the status quo.
What made this project unique in Umdoni’s recent history, was the willing participation and contribution by municipal officials. It demonstrates how Public-Private Partnerships can work effectively to improve local conditions.
Harnessing the skills, energy and goodwill within communities should be an obvious choice for local governments.
The past two decades however show a disappointing trend by municipal councils and officials, to disregard their communities and neglect their needs. If this project is a sign of things to come, we have reason to be excited about the future.
The maintenance of infrastructure and standards on our beaches is the responsibility of local municipalities. Our coastline and beaches are the unique selling point in our tourist industry and a valuable recreational space for local people. Given this significance, they should be kept in prime condition.
Scottburgh Beach is one of the best bathing sites on the KZN South Coast. Its recognition as a tourist site of national repute is at risk. An oversight visit to beach on the November 30 revealed what can only be described as extremely disappointing and in many instances, shockingly dangerous.
The broken facilities, abuse of alcohol, discarded bottles and litter, stand in stark contrast to the clean, well maintained, friendly and natural beauty that once characterised the space.
Local community group, Keep Scottburgh Beautiful, working with the ward councillor and businesses, are fighting a valiant battle to clean-up and improve the beach and CBD. The scale and scope of work required is immense. They deserve all the help they can get
Umdoni Municipality must step up to the challenge and play its part in restoring the Scottburgh Beachfront and CBD. The Democratic Alliance calls on the leadership to make a budget adjustment and commence a restoration project that prepares it for this festive season.
Scottburgh always had and still has the economic potential to boost the local economy and create many permanent jobs. It only needs to be repaired and managed in a practical way. It will not require expensive consultants, fanciful development plans (to gather dust), more talk shops and more pointless walkabouts. It only needs the will to get it done.
EDWIN BAPTIE MP
DA Constituency Head: UGU North
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