Andrè paves the way to Haggard’s Hilldrop
Sir Rider Haggard will forever be remembered for his novel, King Solomon's Mines.
HILLDROP – Sir Rider Haggard will forever be remembered for his novel, King Solomon’s Mines.
The acclaimed novelist and his friend, Arthur Cochrane, purchased what is now known as Haggard’s Hilldrop in 1879, for the purpose of ostrich farming.
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Sir Rider Haggard’s house still stands 137 years on, and is a national monument.
Sadly, the road leading to this historic structure declined over the years, and began to resemble the mining operations Sir Rider Haggard wrote about centuries ago.
To owner of Haggard’s Hilldrop Bed and Breakfast, Andrè Joubert, this was unacceptable.
“The road used to be a dirt road. When the municipality was requested to tar it approximately 10 years ago, myself and a few others were told there was no money for it, but if we could raise more than R100 000, it could be done.”
They raised this considerable sum and the road was eventually tarred by municipal contractors, on condition the municipality would maintain it.
However, Mr Joubert said that part of the bargain was never fulfilled.
This meant he was forced to maintain the road and resurface it himself on numerous occasions, most recently on October 18.
“I don’t have a problem fixing the road, but I would appreciate it if the material could be given to me, as it is costly. I have asked before for material, but none is ever given to me, and when there is, it is usually old and dry.”
Mr Joubert said the road needed to be maintained, as there were three bed and breakfast facilities operating in the area, and a constant flow of traffic.
“We have tourists from around the world visiting, and it is embarrassing having to apologise for the condition of the road.”
Apart from the historical importance of Mr Joubert’s property, he made mention of the contribution to the local economy made by businesses in the area.
“The three bed and breakfast facilities have 80 rooms combined, and we all pay business and residential taxes.”
The municipality was approached for a response to Mr Joubert’s claims, clarity on its responsibility, and to perhaps seek a way forward.
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Strategic Executive Director for Technical Services, Lindile Zincume said the municipality has noted Mr Joubert’s complaint.
“The municipality attends to challenges on roads in line with the road maintenance plan and budget allocation.”
He confirmed it would be benificial to the town in maintaining the road conditions to Haggards Hilldrop.
“The municipality is willing to explore the possibilities of working together with the community. It is the municipality’s responsibility to repair the roads.”
“Residents who have issues with poor road conditions are requested to report their concerns to the municipality on 034 328 7600 or the call centre 0860 144 144.”
Mr Zincume said no material could be given to Mr Joubert to repair the road surface.
“The Supply Chain Management processes must be followed where the municipality issues material to someone,” he concluded.
