GEORGE NEWS - An open piece of property next to a resident of Pacaltsdorp has caused him a lot of trouble. The owner of the open property apparently has plans to build, but this hasn't yet realised. 

Meanwhile, the resident living adjacent to the property has to cope with a developing illegal dump next to his house.

"I struggled for over a year with this problem," said the frustrated resident. "We have a rat problem, it stinks, and it also attracts unwelcome visitors. We've had a few break-ins since the dump started to grow. It is unsafe in so many ways."

Heeding his complaints, George Municipality did a recent inspection and is now on board to help the distressed resident.

"The owner [of the open property] has already been issued with a notice to clean the property," said Director for Community Services Dawie Adonis. 

"The notice has expired and the department has appointed a contractor to clear the site for the cost of the owner. The clearing will happen as soon as possible. The department of cleansing and environmental health will also monitor the property from here on."

Not only will owners of neglected properties be held accountable for the maintenance of the sites, they will also have to pitch the bill if the municipality has to clean it for them.

Living next to a dump is no fun. Owners of neglected properties will be held accountable for the maintenance of the site and pay the bill if the municipality has to clean it for them.

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