LETTER: Overgrown grass forces pedestrians to walk on busy road

Madam – Newcastle, once upon a time, was awarded the cleanest town in KZN.

I am afraid that this honour will not be awarded to our beautiful (could be) town.

The side walks on most of the main roads are in a horrific state. One of my biggest concerns is the bridge in Drakensberg drive between Allen street and the old casino.

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Hundreds pedestrians cross this bridge daily but can not use the side walk because it is over grown as well as the safety barriers are missing or lying on the ground. This forces the pedestrians to walk on the road which is very narrow on top of the bridge.

I sincerely hope that the responsible officials take action before somebody is killed.

Attached a picture showing the situation.

Hannes

Response from Dr Dumisani Thabethe, Customer Relations Manager/ Acting Strategic Executive Director: Community Services Newcastle Municipality

It is indeed true that Newcastle was awarded the cleanest town in KZN. Unfortunately the resources available then are no longer there. Nevertheless the overgrown grass at the bridge in Drakensberg Drive has since been cut and cleared.

It is important to note that the department is currently struggling to make the ends meet with limited tools available. However we have plans in place to turn the corner since the funds have been made available in the new financial year.

While we try to work according to an approved grass cutting schedule the demands are by far exceeding supply; hence we are failing to work according to our plan.

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