Only 50 people allowed at Alkantstrand
Swimming, however, is still prohibited at the beach and all public pools
The City of uMhlathuze has announced that not more than 50 people will be allowed at Alkantstrand in Richards Bay.
The announcement comes almost two weeks after the beach officially reopened under Level 2 of the Covid-19 lockdown.
‘At this stage, only Alkantstrand is open to the public and access will be on a first come, first served basis.
‘A boom gate has been installed and upon arrival, beachgoers will be screened and their temperature readings will be taken before they can enter.
‘Security guards will ensure only one access point is used to enter the area and when people leave, others will be allowed in,’ said uMhlathuze Communications Manager, Mdu Ncalane.
He said swimming, however, is still prohibited at the Richards Bay beach. This no swimming rule and limit of 50 people will also apply to public pools, which have now been reopened.
‘Law enforcement will continue to monitor the area to ensure compliance at all times,’ Ncalane said.
While there are concerns on how these restrictions will be managed, Ncalane said they are not permanent and will be adjusted as lockdown regulations are eased.
‘We have not seen large numbers of people visiting our beach since it reopened at the beginning of this month, which makes it easier for us to manage.
‘We have limited resources but we will continue to assess the situation and make adjustments where necessary,’ he said.
Permitted beach activities currently include jogging, picnicking, braaing, fishing, ski-boating, boogie and skate-boarding and surfing.
‘We are pleading with community members to be mindful of these health and safety protocols because they are there to protect them,’ Ncalane said.
‘We want people to enjoy themselves but we urge them to also be respectful of the environment around them and not to break bottles or litter.’
Beachgoers have been further urged to abide by the 10pm national curfew.
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