PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - A fire that broke out in the early hours of Wednesday 22 July has left Masiqhame Trading’s recycling services in Kranshoek temporarily suspended.

Bitou Municipality confirmed the immediate suspension of its appointed service provider’s recycling project in a public notice issued on Wednesday, after the recycling facility was destroyed in the blaze. 

The municipality said the suspension takes effect immediately and will remain in place until further notice while the extent of the damage is assessed.

Residents have been urged not to bring any recyclable materials to the recycling facility during the temporary closure. 

Municipal officials are working with the service provider to assess the situation and determine the way forward. The municipality said it would provide further updates as soon as more information becomes available.

The fire was contained following the rapid response of the Bitou Fire Department, preventing it from spreading beyond the facility.

Meanwhile, allegations that the fire might have been the result of arson have been circulating on social media and within the community. However, these claims have not been confirmed. 

The police had not confirmed the cause of the fire by the time of publication, and it remains unclear whether a criminal case has been opened. The exact circumstances surrounding the incident are expected to form part of the ongoing investigation.

Bitou Municipality apologised for the inconvenience and thanked its residents for their patience and understanding while the matter is being addressed.

Residents are advised to keep recyclable materials at home until the municipality announces that the recycling service has resumed.

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