Free inner-CBD parking as court battle continues
The Polokwane Municipality says a court order prevents ParkPoint from continuing with parking management.
POLOKWANE – The Polokwane Municipality is adamant that the on-street parking marshals in the central business district (CBD) are operating illegally and urged the public not to make any payments to the operators.
Spokesperson for the municipality, Matshidiso Mothapo said in a media release that the municipality has successfully secured a valid and standing court order for the eviction of Park Point, the company previously contracted to manage on-street parking services on the municipality’s behalf.
“The standing court order prevents the company from operating, managing and collecting revenue in Polokwane. Despite the clear directives outlined by the court’s decision, it has come to the municipality’s attention that Park Point has issued a public statement declaring their intention to continue with on-street parking operations in Polokwane.
“This statement by Park Point intends and has potential to confuse motorists and other stakeholders,” Mothapo explained and added that any such operations by Park Point, following the court’s eviction order, are unauthorised, illegal and undermines the authority of the court. Polokwane Municipality will not be drawn to discuss the legitimacy of Park Point’s so called ‘appeal’ which at this stage is irregularly filed.
“The municipality has left such to the processes of the courts. However, the municipality can confirm that the court order for Park Point’s eviction remains binding and in operation,” Mothapo emphasised.
Mothapo firmly stated that the municipality will uphold and enforce the court order.
“Park Point shall not be permitted on the streets of Polokwane, and their presence is in direct contravention of a court order.
“They were notified formally when their contract was terminated, however, they insisted on occupation and operation until they were formally removed by the court order granted on February 12, 2024.”
“In the light of these developments, the municipality strongly advises motorists within Polokwane to refrain from engaging with Park Point’s on-street parking services or making any payments for these unauthorised parking operations.
The municipality will not litigate in the media when the courts are the appropriate forums. Therefore, the municipality will not be commenting further on the matter,” Mothapo said and added that the municipality appreciates the cooperation and understanding of all stakeholders including motorists, businesses, residents and visitors.
When approached for comment, Park Point’s managing director Tumelo Mogase said that he was in consultation with the company’s lawyers and will comment at a later stage.
