Blaauwberg (Ward 113) councillor Sue van der Linde said her week had been filled with meetings, site visits and community engagements aimed at addressing issues affecting residents in the ward and surrounding areas.
It began with a Community Services and Health Portfolio Committee meeting, followed by an open discussion at Subcouncil 3, where residents met with national, City and Eskom representatives to discuss ongoing electricity concerns.
Deputy Minister of Electricity and Energy Samantha Graham-Maré, Mayco member for Energy Xanthea Limberg and senior Eskom management joined residents from Wards 113, 107 and 23 at the meeting.
Residents were able to raise questions directly with the panel about Eskom-related power issues affecting their communities.
At the meeting Limberg also announced that street-lighting upgrades were planned for Birkenhead Road in Waves Edge and Meerlot Street, which are expected to improve safety and security in the area.
Van der Linde said branch 113 had met during the week for registration and election training.
The branch planned to assist residents with voter registration ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections. Residents are also able to register online through the Independent Electoral Commission’s website.
Canal project progressing well
The councillor also attended the DA Water and Sanitation Caucus and later visited the Bayside Canal Project site.
She said she was pleased with the progress made so far. “I am pleased to report that the project is on schedule and making excellent progress. The contractor is working hard to ensure the project remains on track ahead of the winter rains.”
One of the planned improvements includes fencing along the R27 side of the canal, which will prevent through-access from the R27 to the back of the Soccer Club and help improve security in the area. Van der Linde said she will continue lobbying for additional fencing on the opposite side of the R27 near the Waves Edge suburb.
Addressing community concerns
On a ward day Van der Linde and her team also addressed several issues raised by residents. Among these were an abandoned house on Blaauwberg Road, which remained a concern for nearby residents.
In collaboration with the metro police, several rough sleepers were also moved from the beachfront bus shelter, which has become problematic and is currently not being used by commuters. “I have already requested that the bus shelter be either removed or repaired and will continue to follow-up on this matter,” Van der Linde said. She also visited a business in Blaauwberg Road where zoning compliance was being addressed.
Community engagement continues
The week ended with community engagement and political activities, including a fundraising event attended by ABT Constituency members at Killarney.
Van der Linde thanked residents, activists and organisers for their continued support and involvement.
