Mpumalanga sports centre stalled since 2012 despite R324 million spent and no construction started
via The Citizen13 min read
Political parties in Mpumalanga are demanding an investigation into the delayed multibillion-rand high-altitude training centre planned for Belfast, near Middelburg. Since 2012, the Mpumalanga department of culture, sport and recreation has spent over R324 million on the project, yet construction has not begun. While some preliminary work on water supply and other infrastructure has been completed, nothing is near completion, and work has stalled. A recent departmental report indicates that R5.2 billion is now needed to continue construction. The project, conceptualized in 2011 by former premier David Mabuza, was initially estimated to cost R3.8 billion. The African People’s Convention leader, Themba Godi, criticized the consistent delays and budget overruns in Mpumalanga's capital projects, calling for accountability and arrests of those responsible, including MECs. Bosman Grobler, a DA member of the provincial legislature, expressed concern over the escalating cost and the R324 million already spent on land purchase, feasibility studies, environmental impact assessments, designs, and incomplete phases 1 and 2. He noted that R70 million was allegedly wasted due to a subcontractor supplying inferior concrete for a reservoir, leading the DA to suggest abandoning the project to prevent further financial strain on the department and the Mpumalanga government. The uMkhonto weSizwe party has also called for the immediate scrapping of the megaproject. The department has not respond
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