PC Pelser Airport, situated between Klerksdop and Stilfontein, has become an embarrassment to both the City of Matlosana Local Municipality and the government of the North West.
Director of Community Services at the municipality, Pheello Setona confirmed that there is a lack of aircraft tracking records at a municipal airport, which exposes a breakdown in operational governance and safety compliance oversight.
This is a clear indication of a severe governance failure, directly impacting security, and safety compliance. The facility is grappling with aging infrastructure, inadequate lighting, limited security systems and the absence of a full-time air traffic control tower.
“We do not have a record of aircraft landing and taking off at this airport and this makes the facility a potential hub for criminal activities, especially considering the prevalence of illegal mining activities in the area.
This airport has significant potential. We can even establish an aviation school here, but the municipality currently lacks the budget required to implement the improvement plans,” said Setona.
While reporting back to permanent delegates to the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) and members of the North West Provincial Legislature, Setona asked for funding for the proposed upgrades of a municipal airport, has a 1 500-metre run away and 49 hangars, 11 of which belong to the municipality.
Addressing the concerns raised, NCOP delegate Mpho Modise confirmed the NCOP would facilitate a joint oversight visit involving committees responsible for safety, policing and mining matters.
Modise could not hold himself but emphasised that the facility’s security shortcomings require urgent intervention.
While they continue with “The Taking Parliament to the People Programme,” delegates went to the Goudkoppie Heritage Hill, which used to reflect the region’s rich mining, cultural and historical heritage, and is now reflecting poor security.
Goudkoppie, which is situated on the N12 route, has suffered vandalism and damage linked to zama-zamas and vandalism between 2017 and 2022. A community based organisation funded by the National Lottery, Leano la Bophelo has tried to restore the site.
Museum Curator Alta Blom told members of the delegation that inadequate fencing and poor security continue to expose the site to vandalism, illegal dumping and occupation by vagrants.
“We need funding to restore this site to its former glory. There is also a need for proper signage and infrastructure upgrades,” said Blom.
Blom noted that the site’s proximity to the Anglo-Boer War Connection Old Cemetery attracts international visitors tracing family history and visiting ancestral graves.
“This site is strategically located and presents a valuable investment opportunity that can generate revenue and create employment opportunities for the community,” she said.
The Chairperson of the NCOP, Ms Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, called on the municipality to strengthen collaboration with community-led heritage initiatives. She emphasised the importance of preserving heritage sites as part of protecting the country’s history while also supporting local economic development.
