GEORGE NEWS - The Transnet Transport Museum temporarily reopened on Saturday 27 June for a well-known local flea market that will continue until Sunday 12 July.
For this event, the Powervan has also returned to its usual departure point at the museum. Charl Marais, its operator, said they are grateful to be back, although only temporarily.
The museum had been closed since May, when an outside section of the building was damaged by the severe weather. It has since emerged that some areas inside the facility also require urgent maintenance and repairs, which was part of the reason for the closure.
Responding to a query from the newspaper, Transnet said on Friday 26 June: “The phased reopening of the Transnet Transport Museum has been undertaken as a considered and negotiated response to requests from tenants and stakeholders, allowing for limited public access while existing safety constraints continue to be managed.
"This arrangement is structured as a temporary concession, with tenants having signed indemnity agreements and undertaken to secure appropriate third-party insurance as part of the conditions for operating within the facility. While the museum is currently accessible on a limited basis, any continuation beyond 12 July will remain subject to ongoing risk assessments and strict compliance with safety requirements.
“Progress has been made in addressing certain repairs within the building, however, further remedial work remains dependent on internal governance processes, including the finalisation of budgets and procurement approvals. Transnet continues to engage internally to ensure that priority infrastructure and safety concerns are addressed in a structured and compliant manner.”
Transnet said at this stage, it is not possible to confirm a date for the full reopening of the museum.
The timeline will depend on the completion of outstanding repairs, the appointment of the necessary contractors and the implementation of a comprehensive maintenance plan.
Pieter du Plessis, the main organiser of the flea market (The Market @ Transnet Transport Museum), said significant time and investment had gone into organising the event, and they are relieved that it can take place.
The Transnet Transport Museum is currently open until 12 July. Photos: Michelle Pienaar
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