The City of Tshwane has recently discovered the existence of an unauthorised private helicopter landing pad situated on city-owned property.

The MMC for Corporate and Shared Services, Kholofelo Morodi, confirmed that preliminary assessments indicated that no official authorisation was granted for the construction and use of the helipad.

Morodi warned that the unauthorised helipad poses serious safety, environmental and legal threats, especially to children as it is located near a local school and within a wetland behind the Waterkloof Tennis Club.

“The environmental impact on the wetland, as well as the safety risks to residents, particularly schoolchildren in the area, are deeply concerning. The city is committed to ensuring that public land is protected and used in a lawful and responsible manner,” said Morodi.

Morodi said the existence of an illegal helipad on municipal land raises serious concerns on the levels of security. An urgent investigation has been launched.

“This discovery raises critical questions regarding how municipal land has been used without approval or oversight.

“The city takes this matter seriously and has already initiated an urgent investigation to establish how this situation arose and who is responsible,” said Morodi.

The multiparty government strongly condemned the unlawful occupation of municipal land, and assured residents that decisive action will follow.

“The City of Tshwane remains committed to upholding the rule of law, safeguarding the environment, and ensuring that municipal land is used for the benefit of all residents,” said Morodi.

Pretoria News

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