Great Bingo Vryheid places its money on town’s development
"We still hold a very firm view that Vryheid is in dire need of revival on all fronts".
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In December last year, during the last sitting of Council for 2019, Great Bingo made a proposal to install LED lights in town, and its request was applauded by councillors.
Chairperson of Great Bingo, Percy Shabalala said recently, “It is my great pleasure to announce that today Great Bingo has made good to the municipality, with the first 24 LED fittings being installed on Stretch Crescent. We still hold a very firm view that Vryheid is in dire need of revival on all fronts, in order for business to flourish and lives of communities to improve. Vryheid businesses desperately require passing trade, which will eventually give the dwindling economy a much needed shot in the arm. Currently there is very little, if any at all, that attracts travellers, tourists and visitors to Vryheid CBD, because of its depressing nature.”
Also read:Â Business illuminate town one light at a time
Shabalala said there were three things which ‘stood out like a sore thumb’ to him, namely filth, darkness and crime.
“The problem of litter and filth needs addressing now. Overgrown grass in public parks and on sidewalks is yet another issue which does not put the town in good stead. It is really a sorry sight at night. Street lighting needs urgent attention, which in turn will assist in the prevention and fight against crime. Communities feel much safer around well-lit environment. The situation is so serious and embarrassing, that one can be mugged and harmed right on the police station pavement because of darkness. The situation does not get more serious than having a police station plunged into darkness.” Shabalala commented crime usually began small but then escalated to more serious incidents. He said the situation was no longer a laughing matter.
“It has become a deterrent in the CBD. Making our streets a safer place is the first step in combating crime.”
He added Great Bingo was ‘proud and humbled’ by the reception it received from Council, in assisting with lighting up Vryheid in a very small way. Shabalala believes the town can be restored to its former glory, and only requires every patriot to offer a helping hand.
“The problem is no longer a political issue, but more of a civil issue,” he concluded.
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