GEORGE NEWS - A parking area at Wilderness' popular Lagoon Beach has become an informal taxi parking spot for up to 20 taxis at a time, raising concerns among residents about dwindling parking space, litter and what this arrangement could mean for holidaymakers during the upcoming peak season.
A Wilderness resident, who asked to remain anonymous, has raised concerns about the taxis' use of the parking area on 1st Avenue, off the N2 to George.
According to the resident, the spot has been used for the past few months, for about 15 to 20 taxis at a time. The parking area borders two residential complexes and is also used by holidaymakers and other visitors to access the lagoon.
George Herald approached the Uncedo Service Taxi Association for comment on the situation and asked whether the current use of the parking area was pre-arranged. The association was also asked whether the arrangement was temporary due to the current roadworks along the N2, and how they thought it might affect visitors during the upcoming holiday season.
Response from taxi association
Uncedo secretary Luvuyo Nqumama responded by acknowledging the Wilderness' residents' complaints. He indicated that the association believed these concerns should be addressed through the appropriate channels and maintained that it had not occupied the area without being allowed.
Response from SANParks
SANParks was also asked whether it was aware of any arrangements and whether permission had been granted for the area to be used for taxi parking or as a taxi rank. It was also asked about the duration of the arrangement, its impact on holidaymakers, available parking during the peak season and the concerns about littering.
The area's communications manager, Phokela Lebea, said SANParks was not yet in a position to respond, as it first needed to fact-check the information and establish a clear understanding of what was currently happening with the taxis operating at the Lagoon Beach parking area. "We will investigate the matter internally and revert to you once we have confirmed the relevant details," Lebea said.
Response from the George Municipality
As for the concerns about cleanliness and littering at the parking area, George Municipality's Street Cleansing and Pollution Control Section said it was tasked with ensuring the cleanliness of the town and its parking facilities.
"Our team will look into this issue and strategically install additional concrete bins in areas where they are most required. Furthermore, we will conduct regular checks of the area," said municipal spokesperson Ntobeko Mangqwengqwe.
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