It is deeply disappointing to report that the shower heads at the newly upgraded public bathrooms at the Franskraal/Uilenkraalsmond parking area were stolen again yesterday, 22 October 2025.

Although the damage may seem minor, repeated vandalism like this quickly adds up. If it’s not the toilets or basins being damaged, it’s the showers or other fittings. Most fixtures have already been replaced with plastic components in an effort to reduce losses, yet the vandalism continues. Each incident costs the Municipality money that could have been used for other community projects.

This is not an isolated incident. Not long ago, the bathrooms at the Spaces for Sport facility had to be fitted with a simple pipe instead of a shower head due to repeated theft – and sadly, that may once again become the only option.

But surely we cannot allow this to happen. Residents, who must be the eyes and ears on the ground, cannot just turn a blind eye. We all want to be proud of our area, especially since these facilities are used day in and day out by locals and visitors alike.

Municipal staff feel deeply disheartened. Every attempt to enhance or maintain community facilities is undone by these thoughtless acts of vandalism.

If you see anything suspicious or wrong, please report it immediately to the 24/7 Municipal Law Enforcement on 028 313 8996 or log a call via the Overstrand Citizen App.