‘Please help us, HCM’
Locals have pitched in to help keep Melville's magnificent beach accessible.
AN inviting tidal pool and a beautiful beach could make for a fantastic holiday spot.
This is thanks to the residents of Melville who have for many years kept the pathways to the beach trimmed and cleared.
The biggest concern to those living permanently in the area is crime… and that criminals lurk in bushes, ready to pounce.
Residents feel Hibiscus Coast Municipality (HCM) could do more in order to provide a safer place for villagers, holidaymakers and the owners of holiday accommodation. Most recently the story of a photographer and his model being attacked and robbed in the Melville/Banana Beach area made news.
“HCM needs to do more about more the coast,” said June Myers, chairman of the Bendigo Ratepayers’ and Residents’ Association.
When the Herald joined residents on a ‘walk-about’, a lot of overgrown thought-to-be municipal and private properties were pointed out along Esser Lane, Beach Road, Station Road and Fisherman Drive.
“It’s the municipality’s responsibility to put pressure on landowners who don’t keep their plots cleaned,” said Mrs Myers. She added that if one travels up to the North Coast, everything is immaculate.
Mrs Myers said that the large area above Melville’s main beach could be a perfect picnic and braai spot.
Residents recall that there once was a change room, although nowadays the building is hidden somewhere in the overgrown bush.
HCM spokesman Simon April said that the matter was raised with the relevant department, however, he would encourage residents and community members in general to make use of the Customer Care Centre to raise their concers. They would then be able to update residents from time to time about the progress in addressing their complaints.
Customer care can be contacted at 0396882027, SMS at 32061 or services@hcm.gov.za
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