The Drakenstein municipal district has for a few years enjoyed “city” status. But many years ago, due to Paarl’s enormous industrial sector, it was deemed the biggest “town” in the Western Cape.
Since then, the valley has again burst out of its seams, now with a estimated population of 330 000+.
Unfortunatly, though, Paarl is no longer the industrial giant it once was. Drive, for example, around the Dal Josaphat and Huguenot areas, and see for yourself how many once-flourishing factory buildings now stand empty.
This can be attributed to many things, such as the current economic setbacks we have all experienced.
But many in the know say it is due to two very problematic issues – one, very high electricity tariffs in Drakenstein, which have forced business to move to other areas that they find are not so challenging.
And now also, as highlighted in Paarl Post this week, lack of security in the industrial areas, which leads to large-scale vandalism, theft and robberies.
With a growing population in Drakenstein, of which only about 50% contribute to municipal taxes and many live on indigent grants, it is of utmost importance to create jobs and for the powers that be to focus on protecting and easing the strain on industries and businesses in the valley.
