An informal trader who trades illegally outside a college in Plattekloof is apparently unwilling to cooperate with City officials.
Shirley Alexander, district area coordinator – economic growth and economic development, told councillors at a Subcouncil 3 meeting held last week that the persistent trader who has been there for some time now remains a “challenge”.
A meeting was held with Ward 1 committee members where the issue was also discussed.
Alexander said that compliance officers still visit the trader.
They have explained to her that she can get a bay elsewhere, but she is still consistently trading in the area and is not compliant, she said.
Other than the single trader, there has not been many complaints about informal traders in the ward for some time, Alexander added.
She also added that law enforcement personnel had been deployed to the area and that some residents here have praised their presence.
Councillor concerned about trader
Cheryl Visser, councillor for Ward 1 which includes Kleinbosch, Monte Vista, Panorama, Plattekloof and Welgelegen, said the only complaints she had received were in relation to the illegal trader selling goods near the college.
Visser said that apart from it being a health risk she also poses a safety risk.
The person ignores everybody and the students continue to support her, Visser added.
Visser said she has also received complaints regarding the trader from local residents and that the trader is apparently refusing the help offered by Alexander and her department. Visser referred to her actions as “brazen”.
Alexander told council that she does not know what more can be done from her side to deal with the matter, as she cannot force a person to visit her office for help.
Bylaws need to be adhered to
Phindile Maxiti, Subcouncil 3 chair, said they cannot allow people to do as they please. “There are bylaws we all need to adhere to. I hope that at the next meeting there will be better news,” he said.
Alexander said with regards to Ward 5 (Bothasig, Edgemead, Burgundy Estate and Richwood), the traders on Plattekloof Road are the only challenge at this stage. She said a schedule will be drawn up to allow compliance officers to work over weekends as well going forward.
Miquette Temlett, councillor for Ward 5, said she is happy about this site and there have not been any recent complaints received from the public.
The Subcouncil meeting was held at the council chambers of the Royal Ascot Municipal Building, Bridle Way in Milnerton on Thursday 16 February.
