The Democratic Alliance (DA) is calling on the Dikgatlong Municipality to stop any further delays in the redevelopment of the Barkly West Resort.
While the development of the resort has been advertised, the process must be transparent, fair, and efficient to ensure that revitalisation is sustainable, delivers value for money, and proceeds swiftly enough to preserve what remains of the resort.
Once a vibrant holiday destination along the Vaal River, the Barkly West Resort offered campers the chance to swim in its large pool, fish in the Vaal River, and enjoy quality time with friends and loved ones.
After 30 years of neglect and decay under ANC mismanagement, the resort is in ruins. DA oversight exposed its shocking state. Grass and trees are growing out of the large swimming pool, the diving pool is filled with rotting water and refuse, seating has been destroyed, and braai facilities vandalized beyond use. The grounds are overgrown, playgrounds ruined, and ablution and other resort facilities plundered, leaving only shells of the structures behind.
The decline is a symbol of the rot at local government level, where promises and strategies have stalled while communities watch local assets deteriorate.
While municipal documents acknowledge the resort’s potential as a key tourism asset capable of boosting local economic growth and job creation, no concrete action, aside from the proposed development advertisement, have been implemented to bring it back to life.
The DA urges the Dikgatlong Municipality to act decisively, and to ensure that the development tender process is fair and transparent, to ensure lasting upgrades and maintenance of the resort.
The people of Barkly West deserve spaces that provide recreation, entertainment, and opportunities to relax and strengthen the local economy, not just memories of what once was.