– Kouga Local Municipality has noted with concern the article published by the St Francis Chronicle titled “KM Shuts Down School”. The municipality says the article contains several inaccuracies and was published without giving the municipality an opportunity to provide input, clarification, or comment before publication.
The municipality would like to place the correct facts on record.
On 1 April 2026, representatives from Law Enforcement, Environmental Health, Town Planning, and Building Control conducted a joint compliance operation at the property in question. The operation followed complaints regarding the operation of an unauthorised school.
During the inspection, officials confirmed the following:
- The property was being used for purposes other than those permitted in terms of municipal by-laws.
- No land-use application had been submitted to permit the operation of a school on a residential erf.
- Unauthorised structures and alterations had been erected without approved building plans.
- Notices issued to the owners had not received a response.
Compliance notices issued
Following the inspection, two authorised municipal officials issued compliance notices to the property owners on 7 April 2026. Officials issued the notices in terms of the Spatial Planning and Land Use Management By-Law, as well as the National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act, 103 of 1977.
The notices outlined the corrective steps required to remedy the identified contraventions within the prescribed timeframe. In addition, the notices informed the owners of their right to appeal or object. The owners did not formally object.
The owners later engaged with the municipality to obtain guidance on the requirements for compliance with the by-law and National Building Regulations. Municipal officials explained these requirements and referred the owners to the relevant service departments for matters relating to other applicable legislation.
Subsequently, the owners appointed a professional to address and regularise the issues identified during the inspection, including the unauthorised structures and occupation.
Municipality clarifies removal claims
The municipality also stated clearly that officials did not forcefully remove any learners, staff members, or occupants from the premises during the operation. All persons present remained on the property when officials departed.
Furthermore, the municipality emphasised that the matter relates to compliance with national building regulations, land-use management requirements, and occupational safety standards.
According to the municipality, these processes help ensure that all facilities operating within Kouga comply with legislation and provide a safe environment for occupants.
Kouga Local Municipality said it remains committed to lawful, fair, and transparent governance. The municipality also encouraged responsible reporting based on verified facts and balanced engagement with all affected parties.
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read more: Lionel Mapoe’s vision to uplift Kouga – Kouga Local Municipality
The initial article would have benefited the community if it had been presented factually and included the necessary background. Instead, it was inflammatory and stirred up emotions. This local community paper should be more responsible in its reporting.
Firstly for objectivity I think it would be prudent to publish the article the Kouga Municipality is claiming to be fake news, to allow all readers to get both sides of the story.
Secondly If Kouga is going to talk about Town Planning and Building Control and all the other legalities, my question is are the same standards being applied across the board, especially with regards to the growing informal settlements in St Francis Bay, which appear to be completely unregulated whatsoever.
Its a high school, something the town could benefit from seeing as though there are no other options.
Im surprised the municipality doesnt support and encourage this initiative.
If one had to visit the illegal school you would see how unsafe it is for a children. You can’t just open up a school in a residential area without following proper process. KLM tried to help and continues to do som
Absolutely not true, and shame on you for pushing such a narrative.
Of course you are the same individual who has been commenting and spreading false information across social media too – notably employed by KM.
Go ask all of the children who now don’t have a school how they felt about it? KM acted unconstitutionally and provided no time for the school to find alternative premises – as a result, the school has had to close down.
If you had a look you would see that the school has applied for zoning and been in constant communication with the municipality to get proper zoning!
KM did NOT try to help – but what they did do is intimidate staff and students by sending in 20 uniformed officials. FACT.