A number of problems related to pavements in the Claremont and Rondebosch area have recently been reported to the subcouncil. Since these walkways serve pedestrian traffic, their maintenance is an important aspect of ensuring safe walking routes along busy roads and within neighbourhoods.
Reports have been received of uneven pedestrian walkways along Main Road in Claremont. The sections of pavement in question have become damaged due to the action of tree growth over a number of years and the displaced paving now poses a tripping risk for pedestrians.
Ward Councillor Ian Iversen (Ward 59) met with City Parks official Marwaan Martheze to conduct a site inspection. It was concluded that some root pruning will be necessary and the tree wells will need to be repaired. Once this work is complete, the paving can then be levelled and the affected section will then be re-opened to pedestrian traffic.
It is anticipated that the repair and maintenance work on the pavement will commence next week. The paving will then be reset the following week. Should residents note any other areas requiring rehabilitation, they are encouraged to report the problem by submitting a service request.
Illegal pavement structure to be demolished
It has come to the attention of the subcouncil that a property in Teddington Road, Rondebosch, is in violation of building and planning regulations after it was discovered that a raised slope had been constructed over the existing gutter and pavement without securing permission for its construction.
The makeshift driveway (pictured inset) poses a tripping hazard to pedestrians and also obstructs the pathway for use by wheelchairs and other such devices. In addition, the sectioned of guttering obstructs the proper drainage of stormwater and may pose an increased flooding risk which may inconvenience other property owners and potentially damage the road infrastructure.
A site visit was conducted by a City building inspector who has referred the matter to the Roads Department for adjudication. In the event that no approved plans are in place, it is anticipated that the owner will be issued with an order to demolish the ramp and gutter structure at their own expense and to rehabilitate the pavement area.
Residents are reminded that the pedestrian pavement area including the gutter and adjoining roadway are Council property. Any deviations that are planned should therefore be referred to the City’s planning office for approval before undertaking any construction work in order to avoid unnecessary censure and wasteful expenditure. The safety of pedestrians is also a priority and any planned alterations should take this factor into account.