The Democratic Alliance (DA) has voiced strong concern regarding the continued deterioration of community sports and recreational infrastructure in Ennerdale. This follows an oversight visit conducted on 5 September to the Extension 1 stadium, as well as the recreation centre, swimming pool, and stadium in Extension 9.
DA Ward 121 PR Councillor Chris Avant Smith, DA Shadow MMC for Community Development Councillor Lyrics Mazibuko, alongside a local community activist, were appalled by the extent of decay and mismanagement observed during the visit. The inspection revealed widespread damage, including derelict infrastructure, overgrown vegetation, broken fencing, and disused courts — all indicative of prolonged neglect.
At the Extension 1 stadium, the councillors noted the absence of proper fencing and the removal of goalposts. While it is understood that residents often dismantle goalposts after matches to prevent theft, the lack of formal maintenance or security measures highlights inadequate municipal oversight.
Conditions at Extension 9 were particularly concerning. The swimming pool is currently out of operation, with pumps removed and no functional filtration system. The facility bears clear signs of vandalism and abandonment, making it unsafe and unusable. The adjacent recreation centre has been stripped of its roof, windows, and doors, exposing it to the elements and leaving it in a state of disrepair. The stadium itself is largely empty, offering minimal seating and lacking essential amenities.
“These facilities have been allowed to fall into a shocking state of neglect,” said Councillor Avant Smith. “They were once sources of community pride and engagement but have now become hazards — especially for young people who continue to use these grounds despite the risks.”
Alarmingly, there has been no budget allocated by the ANC-led coalition government for the refurbishment or upgrade of any of these facilities in the current financial year. This neglect is not a recent development but part of a sustained pattern of inaction.
Councillor Avant Smith further stated, “The ANC-led coalition’s failure to maintain even basic public amenities reflects misplaced priorities. Recreational facilities are not luxuries — they are vital to community development, youth engagement, and public health.”
The DA has announced its intention to raise this issue with the Community Development Committee and other relevant departments. The party calls for urgent intervention and the allocation of sufficient resources to restore these facilities to standards that serve the community of Ennerdale with dignity and safety.
“The young people of Ennerdale deserve more than empty promises — they need safe, functional spaces that promote growth, wellbeing, and a sense of community,” Councillor Avant Smith concluded.
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