Limpopo softball community welcomes progress on long-delayed stadium
Read more: Polokwane Softball Stadium gets R184m boost after years of delays
Spokesperson for the Limpopo Softball Association (LSA), Moyahabo Mabeba expressed optimism that the funding will allow construction to proceed without further setbacks.
'The continuous delays in completing this facility have deprived both former and current athletes of the chance to compete in an international-standard ballpark,' Mabeba said.
He noted that the province has missed out on hosting key events such as the annual national provincial championships, African World Cup qualifiers, masters tournaments, and other important league fixtures due to the stadium's incomplete state.
'We are optimistic that the money will be used appropriately, avoiding any contractual conflicts that could slow progress,' he said.
The funding comes as part of a joint initiative by the Polokwane Municipal Council and the Department of Sport. According to Mantlako Sebaka, the municipality's sport and recreation manager, the stadium is expected to be completed by early next year.
The DA has voiced opposition to the new injection of money, pointing out that an initial R69m had already been allocated during the 2019/20 financial year.
You might also want to read: DA opposes additional R184m funding for Polokwane Softball Stadium
In 2023, the DA criticised the municipality's co-funding of over R90m, warning that it could negatively affect other essential infrastructure projects financed through the Integrated Urban Development Grant.
These include road upgrades, waste transfer stations, electrical infrastructure and the development of other rural sports facilities.
The project has encountered a range of obstacles over the years, including vandalism, interference by local business forums, Covid-19 disruptions, and financial difficulties.
DA Polokwane leader Jacques Joubert described the project as overly ambitious and costly, adding that the estimated cost to complete it as of 2023 stood at over R251m.
Sebaka confirmed that the current phase of work focuses on completing external works, the grandstand, mechanical and electrical installations and the roofing.
Meanwhile, Joubert said the DA is calling for the Municipal Public Accounts Committee to investigate the project, citing potential poor planning and financial mismanagement.
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