Workers are kwaad after the CPUT Bellville Campus stopped them from taking a shortcut through the campus to get to Sacks Circle in Bellville.
CPUT confirmed the arrangement, which saw mense pay a R100 annual access fee, has been in operation for many years, but was canned two weeks ago due to security concerns.
A 35-year-old mother of two, who asked not to be identified, says she was shocked when guards told her she cannot take the shortcut anymore.
According to the woman, she has been making use of the shortcut for two years and paid R200 to the security guards for an access card.
The mom of two, who travels from Elsies River, says: “I have been using the campus as a thoroughfare for two years to get to work safely. I came there two weeks ago and was told by the
security that I have to walk around.
“This is about a 45-minute walk and is unsafe. They told me it has to do with gender-based violence on the campus, but what about me and my safety, and who is going to refund me my money?”
CPUT spokesperson, Lauren Kansley, said the cards could only be purchased at their cashiers.
“The walk and drive through cards have been discontinued in response to student and staff gender-based violence concerns. Tighter access controls across and clamping down on unnecessary foot traffic through campus were ...measures implemented.”
She says the thoroughfare was implemented to help the community in accessing the Sacks Circle industrial area from the surrounding areas.