Residents raise alarm over neglected Erf 1297

The residents of Wilderness and Kleinkrantz have expressed their growing concern about the condition and management of Erf 1297 after the long-term lease with Waterleaf Properties was recently cancelled.

- Marguerite van Ginkel

The property is now reportedly unoccupied, unsecured and showing signs of degradation, including illegal occupation, environmental disturbance and infrastructure decay.

The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), which owns the property, emphasised that right of admission to the land is strictly reserved. According to Lusanda Menze, the executive manager of Integrated Planning and Economic Development, anyone entering the property without authorisation does so at their own risk, and the municipality will not be liable for any damages suffered. GRDM officials are monitoring the site and will report any trespassers to local law enforcement.