Media statement 25 November 2024
Cllr Kholofelo Morodi
MMC for Corporate and Shared Services
The City of Tshwane has taken a decision to evict the Silver Valke Rugby Club from City-owned land in Silverton in Region 6. This decision was necessitated by several breaches of an expired lease agreement.
After extensive investigations, it was revealed that the club had sublet a portion of the premises to a school, contravening the specific terms which mandate that the property be used exclusively for rugby-related activities.
Additionally, it was discovered that alcohol was being sold within close proximity to the primary school on the premises, which is another contravention of the principles of a safe and conducive learning environment.
The lease agreement with the Silver Valke Rugby Club had originally been in place for over 20 years. The lease expired years ago, but it was not renewed by the City.
It was during this period of the Silver Valke Rugby Club’s extended use of the City’s facility that we uncovered that the school was paying the club R12 000 per month in rent. The club was originally paying R500 per month to the City.
This discrepancy is a matter of serious concern and underscores the necessity for the eviction of the Silver Valke Rugby Club. The school currently operating at the facility will remain open.
I am deeply sympathetic to the students and their parents who are affected by this situation. Consequently, I will be working diligently with the school to secure suitable premises that align with educational and community standards.
It is imperative that we do not expose our children to environments where alcohol is sold, and I urge other stakeholders to join us in finding solutions that prioritise the welfare of our youth.
The Silver Valke Rugby Club has been granted a 60-day period to appeal this termination decision. It is our hope that, moving forward, the premises will be leased to tenants who will fully adhere to the City’s regulations and uphold the integrity of the lease agreement.
Enquiries:
Karabo Rammutla
karaboram@tshwane.gov.za