Survival of Atlantic is a burning issue

ATLANTIC BOWLING CLUB is set to rise from the ashes.

The fire that gutted the Green Point based premises late last year threatened the club’s mere existence.

At one time it boasted the finest greens in the district and a clubhouse to boot; however, the talk doing the rounds before the fire centred on the club’s financial position and sustainability.

Many believed the last rites had been read on the night that saw the clubhouse almost destroyed by flames.

How wrong the negative pundits have been proven.

Today, after months of negotiations and planning, the beginning phase of the cleanup is under way.

The rebirth of the once proud venue will take time, but soon – if the city council plays ball (which remains to be seen) – a new clubhouse may emerge.

For the loyal member base, who have stood firm through it all, the chance to once again stand proud and marvel at what is transpiring is a welcome relief.

Club president John Taylor had this to say: “Just to inform district members that we can at last get the club cleared up and remove all the rubble, etc.

“The council has allowed us to employ a contractor to carry out the work – They will also clean and paint the ceiling, walls and ladies’ changing area and make the floor safe.

“A division board will be erected to allow the ladies’ and gents’ facilities to function.

“Santam will be paying directly to the contractor from the insurance. Also I have asked the plumber to fit a sink in to allow us to do washing up, etc.”

As for the future, Taylor doesn’t know what’s going to happen.

“The council just does not know,” he added. “I feel they want us closed down but I have other ideas and am writing a business plan which will be offered to the council through the rebuild committee after they have a full input.

“I will not give up.”