Clogged drain causes problems

PALM BEACH residents are dissatisfied with the level of stormwater drain maintenance and cutting of verges by the municipality in the area.

Residents claim that, because of lack of verge maintenance and grass cutting, their worst fear was the value of their property decreasing.

George Faber, who lives in the area, said he has sent numerous emails to the municipality asking for this issue to be addressed but has received no response.

“In extreme conditions such as heavy rains and flooding, water from Gladstone Street runs down the road and washes away tar on Edward Street. Water is not absorbed by soil because the road is tarred. Having nowhere else to go, the water flows down.”

Another resident said it should be standard practice for the municipality to desilt and clean storm water drains.

“The stormwater drain on the corner of Boulevard West and Edward Street is blocked. This drain should divert water to the vlei area and away from the road infrastructure but it can’t do that.”

Mr Faber said, because the road had become a hazard he had to drive for 2km to get to the same exit point. “I can’t drive on that road with my wife, who is not well, in the car. I have to go all the way round.”

“We are never behind with our rates, but the municipality is always behind when it comes to giving us services. Our property values are declining because of the lack of verge maintenance and grass cutting,” said another resident.

Residents have also urged the municipality to enforce laws for property owners who abandon their properties or stands.

“They should be fined; that way, they will clear their properties. That means less crime for us.”

Hibiscus Coast Municipality spokesman, Simon April, was contacted for comment. However, he had not responded at the time of writing.

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