Informal traders in Bothasig say they are excited about their trading bays being maintained and improved at their trading site along Plattekloof Road.
The trading site has been in the area for several years now. One of the traders there, Edward Amidu (44), has been trading at the site for the past three years. He told TygerBurger that all of the current traders at the site are happy that the bays are being improved and that they believe that business will increase as a result.
“They are extending the bays so that other traders can come and join us. We are currently almost 14 traders,” he says.
There were 15 bays before, but with this extension it is going to be about 20 bays, Amidu explains. “Almost each and everyone is happy about the extension of the bays,” he says.
Amidu says they expect that it will get busier. “More people will come and trade here. We expect more customers as well, as there will be more and different commodities on sale.”
Amidu say over the festive season they are busy, but that during the winter business gets quiet. He says business tends to pick up after winter again.
Public participation
Miquette Temlett, Ward 5 councillor, say the construction of the trading bays were completed in 2020 already and cannot be reversed. “The ongoing process pertains to the maintenance and improvement of these bays, including tasks such as painting lines and tar sealing,” she says.
The public participation process for the establishment of trading bays was concluded back in 2020.
“My predecessor, councillor Helen Carstens, presided over a public meeting in 2020 during which maps detailing the precise locations were made available for residents’ perusal. Despite the opportunity for input, only around 30 residents participated in the process. It is regrettable that residents did not voice their concerns during this crucial phase, as the process has since been finalised,” she says.
Construction workers were already on site last week.
“While differing viewpoints exist regarding the trading bays, I would like to stress the importance of understanding resident’s role in fostering economic development and supporting local livelihoods. As the community moves forward, dialogue and collaboration will remain essential in addressing concerns and maximizing the benefits of these initiatives,” Temlett says.
Works starts
Last week Temlett shared the news about the construction work with residents on her social media page.
“We are excited to share that construction work on the trading bays in Bothasig on Plattekloof Road is about to begin. The contractor, Ruwacon, needs to set up a container and a toilet at the site to support their team during the project.
“This setup will not block any structures in the area and will be placed on the grass behind the trading bays.
“The container will be used to store materials and tools from 8 April to 30 May. Additionally, a security guard will be present at the container during nighttime and weekends,” Temlettt announced on Friday.
Amidu says they expect to be back at their bays early next month.
