Please find attached soundbite in Afrikaans by Maritza du Plessis.
Please find attached soundbite in English by Maritza du Plessis.
- The DA welcomes the long-overdue replacement of ageing asbestos water pipelines in Hartbeespoort.
- Residents need clear timelines, proper communication and a plan to minimise disruption during construction.
- The DA will monitor the project to ensure that public money delivers infrastructure that works for residents.
The Democratic Alliance in Madibeng welcomes the commencement of the long-overdue replacement of ageing asbestos water pipelines in Melodie, Meerhof, Ifafi, Schoemansville and Kosmos.
Residents have endured repeated pipe bursts, water interruptions and deteriorating infrastructure for far too long. Replacing these ageing pipelines is an important investment in Hartbeespoort’s water network, and we want this project to succeed.
However, important questions about the implementation of the project remain unanswered.
Ward Councillors were previously introduced to the appointed contractors, but were not given an opportunity to properly engage on the practical implementation of the project. A further meeting and site inspection scheduled for 27 August was postponed shortly before it was due to take place.
Madibeng Local Municipality has since announced that five contractors are establishing sites and commencing work.
Residents now need clarity on when work will take place in each area, how water interruptions will be managed, how construction will affect traffic and access, and who will be responsible for properly rehabilitating roads, sidewalks, verges and private driveways affected by excavation.
These are not attempts to delay the project. They are basic questions that should have clear answers before major construction begins.
As Ward Councillors, we are often the first people residents contact when municipal projects result in water outages, damaged roads or access problems. We therefore need accurate information so that residents can be properly informed and problems can be addressed quickly.
The DA’s Working for All Manifesto 2026 puts reliable basic services, responsible infrastructure investment and competent local government at the centre of our offer to residents.
Hartbeespoort needs exactly that: infrastructure that is properly planned, properly implemented and maintained for the long term.
We will continue engaging with Madibeng Local Municipality and the project team, monitor progress across all affected areas and keep residents informed.
Residents deserve water infrastructure that works and government that works for all.