GEORGE NEWS - Concerns about informal dwellings, open fires and waste near the residential properties in Wilderness have resurfaced, and residents are warning of potential fire and safety risks.

Concerned locals have previously reported a site along 2nd Avenue. Some of these informal dwellings are situated near the Wilderness Satellite Police Station and George Fire Station.

According to the information provided to George Herald, five informal dwellings were again identified on 6 August. The municipal personnel reportedly found several people in the bush, with a large fire burning nearby.

The residents have raised concerns that open fires have been observed about 20m to 50m from homes. The risk is heightened by strong winds and hot, dry conditions, which could allow the flames to spread through the surrounding vegetation towards the residential properties.

Rubbish was dumped nearby. Photo: Supplied

Rubbish and human excrement have also reportedly been found, raising concerns about sanitation, the environment and residents' quality of life.

Previous efforts to address the problem have included the municipality's Anti-land Invasion Unit removing some informal dwellings. The locals say the occupation has nevertheless continued, and regular patrols have previously been proposed. Some residents are now installing cameras.

Bedding, pillows and other items in the 2nd Avenue area in Wilderness. Photo: Supplied

One of them questioned how an informal camp could repeatedly be established so close to the Wilderness Satellite Police Station. "The pure brazenness of setting up an informal camp next to our only police station displays a defiance and arrogance that shouts 'try and move us!'" they said.

Richard von Willingh, the George Municipality's chief of law enforcement, confirmed that the municipality was aware of the concerns regarding the condition and use of the property on which the George Fire Station is situated. He said the property is owned by the Western Cape Government's Department of Infrastructure, while the portion on which the fire department is situated is subject to a lease agreement with George Municipality. "As the property owner, the Western Cape Government has responsibility for the broader property outside the leased portion," Von Willingh said.

Open fires pose a high fire risk. Photo: Supplied

He said the Anti-land Invasion Unit had conducted patrols on numerous occasions and removed unwanted material where necessary to prevent unlawful occupation and the accumulation of material that could facilitate land invasion. "The municipality continues to monitor the area and will take appropriate action within its legal mandate where unlawful occupation or other contraventions are identified," he said.

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