Buffalo City Metro is reportedly planning to allocate more funds to the NU2 swimming pool in Mdantsane, a project that has seen significant financial input but remains unfinished.
Buffalo City NU2 swimming pool set for more taxpayers millions
Buffalo City Metro recently announced an additional R3 million investment aimed at upgrading the Mdantsane NU2 swimming pool.
This funding is part of a broader commitment that began over a decade ago when the Metro first pledged to transform the derelict pool into a state-of-the-art swimming facility.
Despite the allocation of R30 million so far, the project has seen little progress.
Initial works included the demolition of dilapidated structures and the commencement of new constructions, but these have stalled, leaving the site largely unchanged.
What happened to the R30 million already invested?
The R30 million initially allocated for the NU2 swimming pool’s renovation seems to have vanished with minimal physical evidence of its expenditure.
The pool area, adjacent to a dumping site, remains overgrown and barely recognisable as a once-promising public swimming facility.
Sporadic efforts, including the removal of a Donkin wall and plans for new fencing, were noted, but the bulk of the work has not been completed.
Municipal spokesperson Bathandwa Diamond acknowledged the ongoing delays, citing procurement challenges as a significant hindrance.
The Metro’s financial records on this project have been scant, with only sporadic updates on tender processes for security and minor construction tasks.
The last significant update from the municipality came in July 2017, promising the appointment of a service provider to lead the upgrade, a commitment that remains unfulfilled as of 2024.
The site, intended to house an Olympic-size pool complete with diving facilities and swimming courses, now houses deteriorating infrastructure.
Previously installed water pumps and electrical systems are reportedly beyond repair, casting further doubt on the project’s future completion.