Residents of Louwville are concerned about the illegal dumping regularly taking place on a piece of land on the corner of Dryandra Street.
According to a resident the dumping has been occurring for a long time now and nothing has been done to combat the problem.
“Numerous complaints have been made, as it is seen as a health hazard and eyesore in the community,” the resident added.
Ethne Lawrence, spokesperson for the Saldanha Bay Municipality (SBM), said the municipality is responsible only for the cleaning of municipal open spaces but the erf in Dryandra Street is privately owned.
“In most cases, the illegal dumping of waste in the Saldanha Bay Municipal area is often caused by residents who live in the area,” she explained. “Community members tend not to speak up or report one another when they witness illegal activities, such as dumping. The blame is often shifted to the municipality.”
Lawrence, however, added that the complaint will be investigated and the necessary action taken to clean the area up.
“Members of the public are urged to take ownership of the areas they live in and help the municipality keep them clean,” she said. “Each of us can help keep the area clean by playing our part to prevent illegal dumping.”
When reporting illegal dumping, people should give as much information as they can, such as the physical address, photographs and registration number plate of the vehicle.
To report illegal dumping, please contact the SBM 24-hour call centre on 022 701 7061.
