RESIDENTS of a gated complex on Berg Road in Paradise Valley say they are growing increasingly concerned about safety as overgrown trees and bushes on the verge surrounding their property continue to pose a security threat — particularly now that it gets dark earlier.

Despite appeals to the eThekwini Municipality over several years to address the matter, residents claim their concerns have fallen on deaf ears.
Ian Grieve, a trustee overseeing security for the complex, said the unmaintained vegetation increases the risk to their isolated complex.

“The overgrown bush on the verge — from the paving to the fence line — is a serious security risk. It allows anyone to hide right up against our steel security fence,” said Grieve. “Criminals can easily take advantage of the cover. We feel exposed.”

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Grieve added that the issue has persisted for years, and the Highway Mail reported on this issue in 2021. “Still, nothing has been done,” he said.

In an attempt to resolve the issue themselves, residents once undertook a large clean-up effort at their own expense. However, their efforts were met with a fine for illegal dumping.

“We had collected debris and branches into a pile on the verge for collection once the job was done. Instead of support, we were fined,” said Grieve. “When we asked for guidance on how to manage it correctly, we got no response.”

According to Grieve, the problems extend beyond the immediate verge. The fence line bordering the Paradise Valley Reserve is overrun with climbing weeds, and in many sections the fence has collapsed.

Adding to the concern, the cement pedestrian walkway along Berg Road has become unusable, buried under an estimated 37cm of soil and weeds.

“This is a busy road. Pedestrians are forced to walk in the street even though a sidewalk exists. It’s a clear safety hazard and needs urgent clearing,” he said.
Grieve also noted that overgrown trees are obstructing street lights, worsening visibility at night. All we’re asking is for the bush to be cleared, the pavement made usable, and the street lights exposed. Is that too much to ask?” he said.

@caxtonlocalmedia A concerned resident, Ian Grieve, shows how the unmaintained vegetation increases the risk of being targeted by criminals at the isolated complex in Paradise Valley. #highwaymail #caxtondurban ♬ original sound – caxtonlocalmedia

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Ward 18 councillor Melanie Brauteseth, who has been attempting to assist with the matter, believes that administrative instability within the municipality may be contributing to the delays.

“There have been changes in departmental leadership, and that’s affected progress,” she said. “Budget issues are also a factor. I’m in contact with the acting head of department, and I’m hopeful we’ll see progress soon. The residents deserve better.”

When contacted for comment, eThekwini Municipality responded:

“Please be advised that the City is still in the process of collating the necessary information from the relevant department. The matter is receiving attention, and a comprehensive response will be provided as soon as the information becomes available.”

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