GEORGE NEWS - While the Wilderness Ratepayers and Residents Association (WRRA) reassures everyone there are no new street dwellers in town, the residents are raising concerns following a destructive fire at the Malachite Bird Hide on Bo-Langvlei Road and the dismantling of two informal structures on Wilderness Beach by the Wilderness Defence Force (WDF) last month.
Unconfirmed reports suggest the fire that destroyed the bird hide might have started after some street dwellers occupied the structure.
The much-loved hide, known for its birdlife information and as a peaceful viewing spot, has now been lost. Many residents see this as part of the ripple effect of the unresolved 'vagrant issue' in the area.
SANParks head of Communication JP Louw confirmed the incident, describing it as a setback to the birding community. He said the cause of the fire is unknown at this stage and that it was contained by SANParks rangers and the Wilderness Fire Brigade.
The remains of what once was the Malachite Bird Hide. Photo: Jeff Ayliffe
Structures on the beach
At least two informal structures were dismantled along Wilderness' beaches in March. The WRRA's Susan Burger said this remains an ongoing issue.
According to the WDF's Anwill Januarie, they were alerted about two men building a shelter beneath a dilapidated staircase near Platbank, using a roof panel, blankets and plastic.
Some WDF officers approached the men, asked them to dismantle the structure, and removed the materials without incident.
On Monday 23 March, the WDF dismantled a second structure closer to the Wilderness Beach Hotel and Views.
George Herald has sought clarity from SANParks on the staircase's condition, whose responsibility it is, and what plans there are for repairs or removal, but the enquiries sent nearly three weeks ago remain unanswered.
The queries include whether SANParks is responsible for addressing the situation, the staircase's structural safety, whether it has been formally decommissioned, and what steps are being taken to prevent further illegal occupation of SANParks property.
Additional concerns are the timelines for intervention, co-ordination with law enforcement and social development departments, and any associated environmental or public safety risks.
George Municipality has confirmed that it is aware of a general rise in homelessness across the broader George area, although not specifically in Wilderness.
The Community Safety and Mobility Directorate responds to complaints received where possible, which are referred to law enforcement (044 801 6350 or 044 801 6300 after hours) for verification and action.
"The Municipal Social Development Division has conducted surveys to understand homelessness trends, including seasonal movement.
Further assessments in Wilderness are planned," said the municipality's communications manager, Chantèl Edwards.
Residents seeking clarity are encouraged to engage directly with the stakeholders. The WRRA invites all residents to attend the next CPF meeting at the Fairy Knowe Hotel at 18:00 on Tuesday 7 April.
A closer look the following morning still showed signs of life. Photo: Jeff Ayliffe
Chardrick Pienaar on the scene where an informal structure under a walkway was to be broken down and removed. Photo: Supplied‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’
