The George Municipality is aware of the ongoing intermittent low water pressure challenges affecting residents in Heather Park and Kingswood, most recently on the 2nd and 3rd of January. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused and assure residents that addressing this issue remains a top priority. The eastern side of Heather Park and Kingswood—streets such as Edgely, Longbridge, and Rushmore Road, affecting approximately 15–20 houses—are mostly impacted. On days when a significant number of low-pressure reports are received, the affected area expands to include a broader zone south of Witfontein Road, encompassing Heather Park, Golf Park, and Kingswood.
This information is based on complaints phoned in and discussions with residents, including residential complex managers, which have helped us track the issue.
The low water pressure, particularly noticeable on weekdays between 08:30 and 11:00, is primarily due to faulty valves within the water supply network and increased water usage during these peak times. Over the past few months, extensive maintenance and rehabilitation efforts have been undertaken, including the replacement and repair of approximately 20 valves across Heather Park between Witfontein and Meent Roads. The water network serving Heatherlands, Heather Park, Kingswood, and Blanco comprises over 350 valves. Each valve requires individual assessment, and the process is further complicated by ad hoc pipe bursts that necessitate system isolation and rechecking. Data from smart meters and pressure loggers are being analysed to refine our approach, and additional faulty valves are being identified and addressed on an ongoing basis.
The municipality has also initiated a hydraulic analysis to better understand the system dynamics. This analysis indicates that sufficient water is entering the area. Additionally, it highlights that while low pressure is experienced during morning peak usage, it is not occurring during the evening peak, which would typically align with high usage. The municipality has also investigated all typical large consumers in the area, including construction sites, schools, irrigation systems, and shopping centres, and these have been ruled out as the root cause of high consumption affecting water pressure.
The Kingswood Pressure Relief Valve is scheduled for replacement in the coming week, and this replacement is expected to improve pressure regulation across the network. A pipeline replacement project along Witfontein Road is set to begin in February. This project will include the installation of new valves, bulk water meters, and pressure loggers.
The municipality is committed to transparent communication with affected residents. Engagements have been held with the Kingswood Homeowners’ Association (28 October 2024) and Heather Park residents through Councillor Erica Brown. Residents are encouraged to join the Councillor’s Ward WhatsApp group for updates (contact Cllr Erica Brown at 079 538 1042). Several notices and updates have also been published on our communication platforms.
For more information, visit: https://www.george.gov.za/?s=low+water+pressure+heather+park
To assist us in pinpointing problem areas, we urge residents to report low water pressure incidents with detailed information, including the street address and specific times. Reports can be emailed to gmun@george.gov.za, Attention: Tahseen Raiman; phoned in to Civil Engineering Services Customer Care at 044 801 9262/6 (7:45 am–4:30 pm); or submitted via the My Smart City App: https://mysmart.city/ (Register using your cell phone number).
While the department cannot provide a precise timeframe for complete resolution, our team’s focus remains on implementing both short-term and long-term solutions. We appreciate the patience and cooperation of the community as we work to restore normal water pressure.
Daar is tans ‘n wateronderbreking in Uniondale weens ‘n pypbreuk in Victoria Straat.