Derelict sports club’s future comes under discussion

THE future of the Umbilo Congella Sports Club and grounds was the topic of discussion at a meeting organised by councillor Nicole Graha with representatives from the city, community watches and Metro Police.

At the meeting, various issues that related to the land on which makes up the Umbilo Congella park as well as the grounds affiliated to the sports club were discussed as well as current challenges facing the park such as vagrancy. Graham said previous interventions had not provided a lasting solution.

The sports club section is in the process of being re-zoned for the eThekwini Integrated Rapid Public Transport Network (IRPTN) Southern Corridor, where plans are to use it for gap housing. Although the objection period for these proposed plans ended on 28 September, Graham said there was no definite time frame on this to date.

She said a number of ways forward were identified when dealing with the land at the present time. Jabulani Mdiniso from Parks said his department planned to fence the area with durable plastic fencing which should be completed by June 2016. He also indicated that consideration was being made to move offices or a depot onto the site to try and make better use of it.

“King Edward Hospital will be using the lower section of the club land for parking, which will also clean up this area. More security guards are also required on site, and this is something Parks is considering. There was also a proposal that surrounding businesses may be willing to assist with security, and this will be further explored by myself and Glenwood Community Watch,” said Graham.

She said Sifiso Xulu from the South Durban Basin indicated that he would find out whether precinct plans could include or be extended to this area, as these were currently being considered for the Dalton area.

“Metro Police committed to continuing their work in this area, and to communicating with SAPS to better resolve crime issues linked to these sites. I believe we have made some progress at this meeting. If all these issues are followed through and properly investigated, we can turn the state of this area around. It requires a strong commitment from all departments who have a stake in this matter,” said Graham.