A fallen tree lying across a storm water servitude in Highway Gardens still has Ward 92 Clr Tiziana Plaskitt concerned for the safety of the community.
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The blue gum tree, which fell over four months ago, lies across and partially in the servitude which runs parallel to Beverley Avenue.
The tree was blown over during strong winds in December.
“The reason the tree has not been removed from the servitude is that the City of Ekurhuleni needs a water use licence,” said Plaskitt.
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“As far as I know the City of Ekurhuleni is in the process of obtaining a licence.”
Because some of the branches of the tree lie in the servitude, Plaskitt believes the flow of water has become hindered.
Any debris washed down the servitude will get trapped in the branches of the tree.
“If there are heavy rains or a flash flood, the tree and other debris would contribute to flooding in the area,” said Plaskitt.
“Since the tree fell down there has been increased soil erosion of the banks of the servitude.”
Plaskitt said in addition to hindering the flow of water the fallen tree is a security risk.
“Although the tree is in a boomed off area, criminals could use it as a bridge to gain access to the houses along the servitude,” said Plaskitt.
In order to speed up the application process, Plaskitt hopes to start a petition within the community.
A request for comment was sent to the COE on April 5.
Comment was requested by April 9 at 9am.
At the time of going to print no comment has been received.
