R6m project a total washout
CAR WASH: METRO PONDERS RESUSCITATION
Plan to turn expensive Mamelodi flop into ‘incubation centre’.
About R6 million went down the drain when a Mamelodi West car wash project by the Tshwane municipality failed to get off the ground in 2015, it was revealed this week. Ironically, the project was aimed at boosting the local economy by employing 50 local youngsters.
“The Reitiretse car wash was supposed to revitalise the township as part of the Gauteng province’s tourism revitalisation programme,” said Tshwane metro spokesperson Lindela Mashigo.
The car wash was located near Tsamaya Road, one of the busiest streets in Mamelodi.
“However, it was only operational until it was damaged by storms and heavy rain,” said Mashigo.
Mashigo said Reitiretse was a cooperative of township car washers.
Today, the car wash stands empty and is dilapidated after being targeted by vandals and thieves. The roof, toilets, bins, windows and doors were all stolen.
The Tshwane metro is, however, in discussions with the Gauteng departments of economic development, agriculture and environment and rural development to resuscitate township projects such as the car wash.
“The overall strategy is to convert these projects into so-called ‘incubation centres’ where small and emerging businesses will be incubated,” he said.
At its launch, the car wash was intended to be a state-of-the-art facility.
It would also have boasted a braai and kiosk facility, a laundromat, hair salon, cleaning services and security services, as well as facilities management.
Local residents told Pretoria East Rekord they were disappointed the facility was never truly operational.
The car wash was supposed to have been used by government officials, the taxi industry and motorists at an affordable price.