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An aerial photo taken of some of the shacks erected by squatters on the green strip between Stellenberg and Brackenfell. INSERT: One of the other structures.
STELLENBERG : VAGRANTS ON LAND INCREASE
Green strip squatters irk NIELEN DE KLERK @nielendk
V
agrants who are living on the R300 road reserve between Stellenberg and Vredekloof have increased significantly over the past few months and residents say they are scared of the effect it will have on their community. The issue has been coming on for many years and TygerBurger has reported on vagrants in that spot numerous times in the past. The City is unable to evict people under lockdown, but Alet du Preez, chair of the Stellenberg Neighbourhood Watch, says she doesn’t know of a clean-up for at least a few years. A previous article, published on 30 August
2017 (“Road reserve turning into squatter camp”), says people were removed in July that year. Squatters reportedly returned mere hours after their shacks were removed. Since then numerous appeals have been made to law enforcement, anti land invasion units and ward councillors. “The number of people (there) has definitely increased,” she says. The watch also recently piloted human detection cameras and Du Preez says it’s alarming to see all the movement to and from the area. Wayne Dyason, the spokesperson for law enforcement, confirms they cannot break down homeless structures during the national lockdown, but says his officers will monitor the situation.
“Law enforcement will, however, enforce the relevant bylaws relating to dumping, littering and anti-social behaviour.” Zahid Badroodien, the Mayco member for community service and health, says the land is owned by different entities. “The length abutting Eversdal Road, from the ‘Stodels bend’ to the De Bron Road intersection, is zoned ‘Public Open Space’ (POS) belonging to the City. The river course is mainly located on Western Cape Provincial Government property, while the strip along Vredekloof is Sanral property. There are also two strips of private land, still being farmed, towards De Bron Road.” Badroodien says it’s not ideal to have a public space like this fenced off or built on. “Fencing of problematic areas can have the adverse effect of creating safe retreats for
the homeless, increase anti-social behaviour and invite criminal behaviour. Also, fences have not been proven to be fail-proof in keeping criminals out, just as walls do not always keep burglars out of private properties.” Badroodien says residents should be encouraged to use the area for “positive recreation”, like walking and jogging. “The site is very suitable for a Park Run, for example. The Populierbos woodland is an example of how an area like this could become popular for positive recreational activities.” Recently pictures surfaced of trees that were cut off, seemingly in the area. “The matter is being closely monitored by the recreation and parks department. V To page 5
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