Business park to take water samples
An appeal was made to the municipality to do more frequent testing and spot checks.
In response to allegations that the source of the contamination in the Amanzimtoti Bird Park Sanctuary could emanate from the Southgate Business Park, the Southgate Owners Association said it is very concerned about the state of the water coming into and leaving the park, and the possible impact it may have on the environment.
To this end the park manager, Mr O’Brien was tasked with further investigating the possibility of taking regular water samples in the park.
“The management of Southgate Business Park has over the past few years worked closely with the authorities responsible for monitoring and enforcing the control of contaminants that may from time to time enter the water in the park,” said O’Brien.
“On request of the Park Owners Association, I recently asked the municipality to do more regular testing of the water. Samples submitted indicated the level of contaminants were ‘acceptable’ in terms of local and national guidelines.”
According to the manager, a further appeal was made to the municipality to do more frequent testing and spot checks.
“Security staff have been advised to keep an eye on the area below the conference centre using ‘sight and smell’ as a first indication of possible pollution.
Any reports from the security staff and other owners and tenants of the park, who are equally concerned about possible pollution, have been immediately reported to the relevant department within Metro, who have been quick to respond in most cases.”
Southgate Business Park is a light industrial complex with over 250 businesses within the property.
“Most of the owners and tenants are well-disciplined and view their responsibility towards the environment very seriously.”
“Unfortunately accidents happen from time to time and owners and tenants are expected to act responsibly to ensure the resultant contaminants do not end up going into the drains.”
Metro reported that a ‘certain individual’ in the park has been prosecuted for a previous infringement and paid a fine.
“Perhaps the time has come to ‘name and shame’ repeat offenders as a fine has only a limited effect,” said O’Brien.
“The Southgate Business Park is committed to curtailing any pollution of the environment by any person in or outside the park.”
