Vandalism Totals R17 Million of Cape Town Recreational Facilities

Vandalism, theft and arson at Cape Town’s parks and recreation facilities over the last year have destroyed R17 million worth of property meant for local communities. The worst was the Desmond Tutu Recreation Centre, whose burning cost R6 million.

“It is especially the vulnerable groups in communities, our children and senior citizens, that are affected the most,” said the city’s MMC Community Services and Health, Zahid Badroodien. “Vandalism, theft and arson at city facilities are selfish, short-sighted criminal activities that have a  long term effect of depriving communities of much needed services and access to facilities.”

The department manages and maintains community centres, sports fields, district parks, outdoor gyms and play parks, resorts, indoor centres, beaches, swimming and tidal pools  and cemeteries.

Theft in the year to August 2020 came to about R3,8 million, and vandalism R11,747,900. A further two claims of arson were registered at a cost of R870 000. The following facilities were vandalised through protest action and illegal land invasions, with estimated losses and damages to equipment and infrastructure per facility:

• Wallacedene Community Park – R63 900
• Monwabisi Resort – R2 550 000
• Desmond Tutu Recreation Centre – R6 million
• OR Tambo Sport Centre – R750 000
• Solomon Mahlangu Hall  -R940 000
• St. James Beach Huts – R300 000
• The Hague Recreation Centre – R40 000
• Phillipi East Hall -R10 000

The estimated value of losses for land invasions and public protests at Recreation and Sports facilities amounts to  R10,653,900.

“It’s important that residents acquaint themselves with the location of public open spaces, community parks and  facilities in their community so that they can take ownership in caring for these facilities, in partnership with the City,” Badroodien said.