On 19 November, FEDHASA participated in a critical meeting with Cogta and the Ugu District Municipality to address pressing challenges impacting tourism on the South Coast. The meeting aimed to highlight the issues affecting the region’s tourism and hospitality sectors, with a focus on potential solutions to restore the area’s appeal and drive economic growth.
FEDHASA expressed its gratitude for the opportunity to engage with municipal stakeholders, emphasising the importance of collaboration in achieving shared goals: fostering tourism, creating jobs, and contributing to the municipality’s revenue and the national economy.
Key Issues Highlighted
State of Scottburgh Town
- General Condition: The town’s derelict and run-down appearance deters tourists and creates a perception of an unsafe environment.
- Social Challenges: Drug use, prostitution, and vagrancy are rampant, with visitors frequently harassed.
- Public Facilities:
- Absence of functional public toilets.
- Beach ablutions are non-compliant with health and safety standards, posing significant risks.
- The craft market is illegally occupied, leaving crafters unemployed.
- Recreational Areas:
- The super tube is unsafe and non-compliant with OHSA.
- Cables have been stolen, causing fires and further safety hazards.
- Putt-putt facilities are overgrown and in disrepair.
- The beachfront pavilion is structurally unsound.
Parks and Public Spaces
- Overgrown areas, such as the park near Blue Marlin, are hotspots for illegal activities and pose safety risks.
- Previously maintained through private initiatives, these spaces are now neglected due to the municipality’s failure to formalise agreements.
Infrastructure Challenges
- Roads are in disrepair with inadequate signage.
- Traffic lights across the district have been non-functional for over a year.
Municipal Failures
- Lease agreements for vital beach facilities and shops remain unissued, leading to job losses and a lack of maintenance.
- The Town Hall, occupied by vagrants, is unavailable for public use.
Summary of Municipality’s Role
FEDHASA stressed that the Umdoni Municipality holds a critical role in driving economic growth through tourism. Key responsibilities include:
- Maintaining infrastructure and ensuring compliance with OHSA standards.
- Developing and preserving attractions like the beachfront and recreational facilities.
- Promoting partnerships with the private sector.
- Enforcing bylaws to create a safe and pleasant environment for tourists and residents alike.
Call to Action
FEDHASA urged the municipality to acknowledge its role in the town’s decline and take immediate corrective action. This includes:
- Approving lease agreements for facilities like the super tube, putt-putt, and beach ablutions, enabling proper management and upkeep.
- Cleaning and restoring public spaces to improve aesthetics and safety.
- Restoring signage and traffic lights to enhance accessibility and security.
- Addressing illegal activities and enforcing bylaws to improve public order.
Proposed Immediate Fixes
- Approving lease agreements for private maintenance of key facilities.
- Removing debris and overgrown vegetation in parks.
- Cleaning and repainting the beachfront pavilion.
- Addressing safety concerns by resolving pending harassment cases and removing illegal occupants.
Leases Impacting Tourism
FEDHASA also highlighted the negative impact of unrenewed leases on prominent businesses along the coast, including Blue Lagoon in Ramsgate and C-Bali in St Michaels. Many businesses have closed, resulting in job losses and diminished tourism appeal.
Path Forward
FEDHASA remains committed to partnering with municipalities to restore the region’s tourism potential. Collaboration, open communication, and decisive action are key to transforming the South Coast into a thriving tourism destination. Together, we can achieve a revitalised region that attracts visitors, supports local businesses, and creates sustainable jobs.
FEDHASA will continue to update members on progress and outcomes from this ongoing engagement.
