Ratepayers call for action after ‘chaos’ in uMhlanga village
Excessive noise, public disturbances, traffic congestion and anti-social behaviour were among the complaints raised by residents this weekend.
THE Umhlanga Ratepayers’ and Residents’ Association (URRA) has called for action to be taken after what they describe as a weekend of ‘excessive noise, public disturbances, traffic congestion and anti-social behaviour’ in uMhlanga village precinct.
The association said the lack of presence in law enforcement is also hurting uMhlanga, which is seen as one of the country’s premier coastal destinations.
Residents and URRA have in the past raised complaints and concerns over what they refer to as the ‘lawlessness’ in the area while calling for stricter enforcement.
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While some strides have been made, not enough is being done, says URRA chairperson Terri MacLarty who also questioned how much more residents can endure.
“People pay substantial rates and taxes with the expectation that they can enjoy their homes in safety and peace. Instead, many spent the weekend feeling trapped by congestion, disturbed by noise and concerned about the deterioration of public order.
“URRA believes the events of the weekend are symptomatic of a far bigger problem. The steady intensification of commercial activity, combined with inadequate planning, infrastructure and law enforcement, is placing increasing pressure on Umhlanga Village and diminishing the quality of life that residents have worked hard to preserve,” she said.
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MacLarty called for the eThekwini Municipality, law enforcement agencies, local businesses and the community to work together.
“This is in order to restore the balance between a thriving entertainment precinct and a residential suburb where people can enjoy a reasonable quality of life,” she said.
In August last year, Mayor Cyril Xaba met with members of the association to discuss strategies to improve policing in uMhlanga.
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