RESIDENTS of uMhlanga are hoping to find a solution to repair a staircase connecting Park Drive and Lagoon Drive which they say is a municipal servitude.

The staircase, which bifurcates two properties, is in a state of disrepair and some sections have completely collapsed, leaving those using the pathway in peril of injuring themselves.

There is also a section where one of the concrete stairs is rickety or unstable because of eroded foundations.

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Workers and residents using the path to walk down to the beach side are forced to walk on uneven grassy sections which are overgrown, and when it rains, slippery.

Northglen News recently met with residents Howard Saul and Brian High who feel they are in limbo over a resolution to fixing the staircase.

“Initially we felt there may be hope that Community Infrastructure Projects (CIP) which funds repairs and construction based on councillor submissions could be used to fund the repair of the staircase,” explained Saul.

“However, after a meeting between residents and the municipality, we were told the pathway does not belong to the City but to a neighbouring complex, which would prevent municipal funds from being used. Over the last few years the space has deteriorated to the point where we fear more sections will collapse and we, as residents, are left in limbo.”

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His comments were echoed by High, who said he had witnessed someone fall down the staircase.

“It was lucky they had a backpack on them which actually cushioned their fall as they fell down the stairs. This route is used by residents and other visitors and it’s the quickest way from this road to get to Lagoon Drive. Even I walk down here regularly, and have to be very careful. In some sections you have to hold on to the railing, which itself isn’t secure. We hope there is a way this project can be funded to fix the staircase because it is a deathtrap,” he said.

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