MAKHADO (LOUIS TRICHARDT) – A tin shack which, according to its builders, will serve as a spaza shop on the premises of the Louis Trichardt Memorial Hospital, is causing a stir in the community.

Various complaints have been received about the tin shack being erected on the hospital premises on the corner of Snyman and Hospital Street.

The DA, in a media release, expressed concern over the fact that the management of the local provincial hospital seemingly allowed the building of an illegal shack on its premises.

"We could not find any proof that building plans for the tin shack had been approved by the municipality or that any architect had been consulted in the process. We are concerned that the hospital management could allow the building of such a shack on its premises without any approval from the local government. This indicates a clear lack of communication between the two spheres of government and a lawless disregard of the building regulations of the country."

It also expressed concern that, without building plans, the necessary health regulations might be ignored. "If food is to be prepared in the tin shack, the health of the public might be in danger."

Without building plans, there is also reason for concern about the quality of the structure.

"If any person sustains injuries as a result of the substandard building, the hospital management will be held responsible."

Those in the process of building the tin structure indicated that the building would serve as a spaza shop.

"The DA is not negative towards the idea, but then the proper process must be followed. Enquiries made from members of the hospital board seem to indicate that they are not aware of this building."