Same-sex gay lesbian divorces Cape Town South Africa
Newlands – New Water Collection Point in Newlands Cape Town
[caption id="attachment_6323" align="alignleft" width="300"]
New Water Collection Point Taps – Newlands Cape Town[/caption] The water crisis in the Western Cape is still upon us. Other than limiting our water usage, the majority of Cape Town ratepayers had to drill deep into their pockets to pay for the water they consumed. For many, no matter how little water they consume, they pay more for water now, than ever before. The crisis is affecting our pockets. Since the water crisis, residents have resorted to alternative means of acquiring and saving water. Some are using boreholes, others JoJo tanks, and others collecting water from various springs around Cape Town. One popular area where springs are in abundance, is Newlands, Cape Town. Since recently, people collected water from two points in Newlands. Now there is an additional collection point available to the public, situated behind the Newlands Swimming Baths, in Cape Town. Look at the picture above, can you see the empty swimming pools? [caption id="attachment_6316" align="alignleft" width="300"]
View from the parking lot at the new Water Collecting Point, Newlands, Cape Town[/caption] When did the new Water Collection Point Open?
The new water collection point opened its doors (or taps) to the public on Wednesday 9 May 2018. We, however, presume that it was only officially open the following day. Don’t quote us on that. Not many people know of it yet. A visit to the location on Friday morning, at 5:40, while doing a run, woke up the security guard on duty. It was clear he was new to his job and was a bit startled. Needless to say, we were welcomed to use the taps. We thought it was best to first check out the new location, before coming with our buckets, bottles and wheelbarrows to collect water. [caption id="attachment_6322" align="alignleft" width="300"]
Parking Lot at the new New Spring Water Collection Point, Newlands, Cape Town[/caption] Where is the new Water Collection Point Situated?
This new Water Collection Point is situated behind the Newlands Swimming Pools. The pools are currently empty. One would wonder why not fill the pools up with spring water? After all, there is an abundance of it, and its free. Let’s leave that thought again for summer.
To get to the new location, you have to drive from Claremont, southwards, towards Cape Town, with Newlands Baths on your left. As you pass the Baths, you would soon see a turn off to your left, taking you into the parking lot of the new collection point. There seems to be ample parking. However, with this water crisis still looming, congestion is expected in the near future. When we visited the location this afternoon, to take some pictures (from our phone – who moves around these days with a camera?), they were busy with some maintenance work at the entrance. It seems as if they were cutting some branches, making way for the parking. The picture collaborates with our assumption. We guess in the next few weeks, security will be more visible on the post. [caption id="attachment_6317" align="alignleft" width="300"]
Drive into the new Spring Water Collection Point – Close to Spur[/caption]What are the operating times?
According to the banner on display, the operating times are from 05:00 until 23:00. So, if you are an early bird (like us), or late sleeper (or both), they cater for you. The current operating water collection points in Newlands are open 24/7. This may come to an end soon. We were advised by security that they expect approximately 5000, yes five thousand visitors a day. We suggest that you consider parking at the Parking Lot of Newlands Baths, should you decide to collect during peak times. The only problem with that is, you would have to walk about 200 meters to your vehicle with bottles in your hands. Unless you have a trolley, that may not be an issue. We presume many entrepreneurs would be nearby assisting people with their water carrying for a small fee. Otherwise, use it as your weekly workout session. 
The new Water Collection Taps at Newlands Cape Town Can one drink the water?
According to the banner on display (it may be clear in one of the pictures); you use the water at your own risk. That is a good disclaimer. We were however advised by the security on site that it is the same water the comes from the taps of the sister springs. It was said that the municipality will manage the new taps, so I guess a disclaimer is essential. Should your tummy ever cramp, remember the disclaimer before speaking to your lawyer. And no, we are not the City’s lawyers. [caption id="attachment_6320" align="alignleft" width="300"]
View to 8 taps on the North Facing Side of the Collection Point[/caption]How much can you collect?
The rules are the same as at the other springs, 25 litres of water per person. So, bring with all your kids, neighbours and friends and make an outing of it. Unless the law changes, pets do not count as persons for the purposes of water collection (fee legal advice). If you have time available, fill up a 25-litre container, take it to your car, and then stand in the queue again. That might save you a few trips to Newlands. [caption id="attachment_6318" align="alignleft" width="300"]
Newlands Springs Collection Point May 2019 – Parking for Water Collectors[/caption] Things to note
- 25 Litres per person;
- 15 minutes of parking;
- Wait your turn;
- Have loads of patience;
- Wheel Clamping;
- Use water at your own risk;
- Collect from 05:00 until 23:00;
- Enjoy the experience
- Keep saving water
[caption id="attachment_6332" align="alignleft" width="300"]
Water Crises Cape Town Newlands Spring Collection Point[/caption] If you have any comments, please feel free to post it below. Also, have a look at a previous article on World Water Day. If you want some insight into the law, read this article:
YOUR HUMAN RIGHT TO DRINKING WATER: A BRIEF CONSTITUTIONAL PERSPECTIVE