Dangerous conditions at Clifton's Heron Waters

A BITTER standoff is brewing between residents of one of Cape Town's most expensive beachfront addresses and the City of Cape Town, over what residents and contractors call a dangerous and long-ignored safety hazard: a collapsed fence and a steep, unstable slope next to a public walkway.

- TRACY-LYNN RUITERS

Despite its reputation for exclusivity and multi-million-rand views, the reality for residents at Heron Waters in Clifton is far less glamorous. For nearly a year, the only thing separating pedestrians from a dangerous drop has been a row of temporary concrete blocks what residents described as a “token gesture” by the City.

Jakkie Steyn, portfolio manager at SKPM, explained that the original issue arose in July 2024 when the City’s main water line in Victoria Road in front of the building burst, causing the unstable roadside fence to eventually break, as well as a severe mudslide into the building.

“Our main concern has always been the fencing,” said Steyn. “The fence wasn't stable to start with, and when it finally broke, concrete blocks were used as a temporary measure. But they’re not safe — there's a real risk of someone falling.”

To prevent further deterioration and potential structural damage, plans for a more stable retaining wall were submitted to the City.

“With winter approaching, it’s critical that the slopes are secured to prevent movement that could cause more serious damage,” Steyn stressed. “But the approval process has been delayed repeatedly, and we are still waiting.”

The apartment building is situated directly on one of Cape Town’s most popular beaches, Clifton 1st, with direct beach access and property values reaching up to R30 million.