WELCOME news for crime-battered residents is that the City of uMhlathuze has budgeted to revive the popular security bicycle project.
Aimed at fighting crime in the community, the announcement was met with resounding approval from traditional leaders and the public in general during the ‘Back to Basics’ workshop.
This system will be supported by another anti-crime project that will see security lights operate throughout the night.
Both projects are due to begin by July and run over three years.
‘We are quite aware of the fact that we do not have sufficient police stations and police personnel to cater for the security needs of our residents,’ said City Speaker, Cllr Mdu Mhlongo.
‘We therefore took a conscious decision to revive the Security Bicycle Project, which will have a huge impact on crime fighting.
‘Our residents will no longer feel threatened to walk in the neighbourhood at night, and all those who work till late night will also benefit.’
Zululand Business Against Crime Manager Dave Whittaker was elated by the news.
‘I am very happy to hear of anything that will contribute to the safety of our communities and look forward to hearing more details of the projects.’
Whittaker said the long-awaited CCTV camera project is also still under discussion.
Mayoral residence on the budget
The City of uMhlathuze has budgeted about R3-million for a new house for the mayor.
‘This project will also fall within the next financial year which begins in July,’ said City Communications Manager, Mdu Ncalane.
‘Due to security reasons, the City cannot reveal and other information on this project.’
Construction of SMME Parks
Youth, women and those with disabilities will benefit greatly from a R5-million SMME project aimed at assisting local businesses and entrepreneurs.
Construction of the SMME Park will begin by September next to the Taxi City Plaza in the Richards Bay CBD.
The project is part of the City of uMhlathuze’s Local Economic Development (LED) strategy.
