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Author: Nadine Payle

UPDATE ON LOW WATER PRESSURE IN HEATHER PARK AND KINGSWOOD

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.

Openbare Kennisgewing: Wateronderbreking in Uniondale

Daar is tans ‘n wateronderbreking in Uniondale weens ‘n pypbreuk in Victoria Straat.
Die geskatte hersteltyd is 3 uur. Ons vra omverskoning vir enige ongerief en waardeer u geduld.

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Water Outage in Uniondale
There is currently a water outage in Uniondale due to a pipe burst on Victoria Street. The estimated time for repair is 3 hours.

We apologise for any inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding.

George Municipality Festive Season 2024/25 – Effective Safety Measures Ensure a Safe and Enjoyable Summer Season in George

George is currently enjoying a vibrant and bustling summer season, with warm temperatures ranging from 26°C to 28°C attracting over 250,000 people to its beaches and public swimming pools from 1 December 2024 and up to 5 January 2025.

Highlights include a record-breaking 42,500 public pool and beachgoers on New Year’s Day, preceded by 26,500 on Christmas Day and 25,800 on Boxing Day. Popular destinations include the Blue Flag beaches at Wilderness Main, Herold’s Bay, and Victoria Bay. Additionally, Leentjiesklip—designated as a pilot Blue Flag beach for 2024—and Gwaing River Mouth, a recipient of the Green Coast Award for the second consecutive year, continue to see steady visitor numbers.

Comprehensive safety measures have been implemented to ensure a secure and enjoyable environment throughout the festive season. Municipal Law Enforcement officials, supported by SAPS and other partners, have maintained a strong presence in the CBD and other high-traffic public areas including the beaches. Fines totalling R72,000 have been issued for by-law infringements such as illegal trading, public nuisance, and disturbing the peace. Confiscated items include 355 litres of alcohol, sharp objects, knives, firearms, fireworks, and drugs.

To date, twelve arrests have been made for offenses including drunk and disorderly conduct, riotous behaviour, and assaulting a Law Enforcement officer. On New Year’s Day, four individuals were removed from beaches for unruly behaviour and public indecency. Confiscated alcohol is being stored and will be handed over to SAPS for destruction. Beach cleaning personnel have also played an essential role, working from 6 am on New Year’s Day to ensure beaches and public facilities were clean and welcoming for visitors.

George Fire and Rescue Services, along with NSRI, lifeguards, and other emergency teams, continue to ensure the safety of residents and visitors. Their efforts have resulted in zero fatal drownings so far this season, while four non-fatal drownings have been successfully managed. Preventive measures have been robust, with 2,791 actions taken, 223 rescues conducted, 751 first-aid incidents and Emergency Medical Assistance provided in nine cases.

The George Fire Brigade has responded to 128 incidents, including 17 formal structure fires, 13 informal structure fires, 66 veld fires, and one motor vehicle fire, with no lives lost. Assistance was also provided to the Hessequa Local Municipality and Garden Route District Municipality for a stubborn veldfire in Jongensfontein. The municipal Human Settlements division assisted 9 families with emergency accommodation and addressed 24 fire cases.

Municipal Traffic Services, in collaboration with Provincial Traffic, remain focused on road safety. They have attended to 28 vehicle accidents, including six with injuries and one fatality, issued 1,983 traffic notices, and conducted 31 impoundments. These efforts have ensured minimal disruptions during the busy holiday period.

The success of the festive season is the result of combined efforts from various George Municipality departments, as well as external support and partnerships with SANPARKS, SAPS, NSRI, and Provincial Traffic. The Civil Engineering Services division responded to 162 Indigent related civils faults, 662 water-related faults, 111 street and stormwater faults, and 879 incidents of sewer clearing and emptying of septic tanks.

The Cleansing division worked tirelessly over the holiday period, with refuse collection officials working on all the public holidays, including Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day. A significant amount of refuse, just under 8000 tonnes was disposed of at PetroSA. Additionally, the Illegal Dumping Campaign launched on 13 December to address waste management challenges across the city’s wards has been highly successful, with over 9079 brown bags of litter collected to date.

Acting Municipal Manager Godfrey Louw commended the efforts of all municipal teams: “The cleanliness and safety of our city have been a top priority this festive season. I am pleased with the exceptional service delivery provided by our departments, despite the challenges of a busy holiday period. The hard work and dedication of our teams, as well as the support of residents, have contributed to ensuring George remains a safe, clean, and enjoyable destination for all.”

Lifeguards remain on duty at beaches and public swimming pools, ensuring safety as the summer season continues through to 31 January. George Municipality extends its gratitude to its hardworking teams and the public for their cooperation and looks forward to concluding the summer on a positive note.

GARDEN ROUTE DAM LEVEL

Percentage storage at new raised dam wall height:
92,74%

Rainfall for the previous days:
12mm

(Measured between 24 December 2024 -06 January 2025)

For water-saving tips please visit: http://tinyurl.com/3439h4n7

The cooperation of all users of municipal water is essential and is greatly appreciated.

George Municipality Tackles Illegal Dumping Head-On

Property of George Municipality, EPWP cleanup in Rosedale

Following the official launch of the Illegal Dumping Campaign on 13 December 2024, the George Municipality is rolling out its detailed 2024/2025 Business Plan to address the persistent challenge of illegal dumping and waste management with a holistic and sustainable approach. The municipality aims to confront the root causes of illegal dumping through a combination of education, enforcement, and continuous clean-up operations.

The campaign is founded on principles of sustainability and emphasizes the importance of consistent interventions over ad hoc clean-up efforts. By engaging the community through education and awareness initiatives, the municipality seeks to change waste disposal behaviours, particularly in informal areas where illegal dumping is most prevalent. Community collaboration remains at the heart of the campaign, with residents, municipal workers, and law enforcement playing a crucial role in maintaining clean and safe spaces.

To ensure effective implementation, the municipality is optimizing its resources, including skilled EPWP workers, skip trucks, and tipper trucks, while also integrating waste pickers into formal recycling programs.

Illegal dumping in George is not due to a lack of waste management services but rather behavioural challenges. To address these issues, the municipality has employed 310 EPWP workers and 14 coordinators, who have been strategically deployed across 12 blocks in the municipal area. Their responsibilities include daily waste removal, street sweeping, sidewalk cleaning, and breaking down bulky waste in open spaces. Workers will receive targeted training to enhance their skills and ensure the highest level of service delivery.

As part of the strategy, skips will be placed in critical wards in the wards across George starting from March 2025 to provide accessible waste disposal points for residents. Each household will receive a quarterly supply of green refuse bags to encourage proper disposal. In addition, the municipality has invested in yellow plant machinery, including TLBs and tipper trucks, to support clean-up operations and manage waste such as builders’ rubble and garden refuse more efficiently.

Incorporating waste pickers into the campaign is a significant step towards inclusivity and sustainability. The municipality has partnered with organizations such as Polyco and Ewasa to consider the establishment of buy-back centres and provide waste pickers with trolleys and protective gear. This initiative not only promotes recycling but also supports livelihoods within the community.

The municipality has allocated R16.34 million to the campaign, ensuring its financial sustainability. This funding covers street cleansing, refuse removal, the hiring of ward-based coordinators, and education and awareness campaigns. These efforts aim to create long-term change by addressing the behavioural and systemic factors contributing to illegal dumping.

MMC for Community Services, Marchell Kleynhans, emphasized the importance of community involvement, stating, “Illegal dumping is a community issue, not just an environmental one, and sustained enforcement alongside public participation is essential for the campaign’s success. We need every resident to contribute to a cleaner George.”

The Illegal Dumping Campaign reflects the George Municipality’s commitment to fostering a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future. Residents are encouraged to report incidents of illegal dumping and actively participate in creating a litter-free environment for all.
Stock photograph: Property of George Municipality, EPWP cleanup in Rosedale

Landmark Collaboration to Elevate Tourism in George

A groundbreaking initiative is set to transform the George trail network and solidify the region’s reputation as Africa’s premier golfing destination. George, Wilderness and Uniondale Tourism, in collaboration with the George Tourism Advisory Committee, has embarked on an ambitious partnership to enhance, market, and preserve these iconic attractions.

The George Tourism Advisory Committee, composed of private-sector tourism stakeholders, appointed in a voluntary role by the tourism office, plays a vital role in this collaboration. Acting as a barometer for industry trends and concerns, the committee provides feedback on initiatives and helps disseminate joint marketing messages throughout the broader tourism community.

This initiative will ensure the broader tourism message is promoted, and that trails remain pristine, safe, and ecologically sustainable while elevating George as a global hub for adventure tourism and world-class golfing.

In March 2024, George, Wilderness and Uniondale Tourism was officially tasked by the Section 80 Committee for Planning and Development, a Committee of Council that exercises oversight over the Tourism function, with creating a non-profit entity to drive joint marketing and development projects with the private sector.

This effort has two primary objectives:
• Enhancing the George trail network for domestic and international tourism.
• Establishing George and the Garden Route as Africa’s “Home of Golf.”

A pivotal meeting held on October 22, 2024, at Fancourt saw stakeholders unite to establish the George Joint Marketing
Association (GJMA), a registered non-profit company. The GJMA serves as the hub for public-private tourism collaborations, pooling resources and expertise to amplify the region’s appeal.

The trail network project is advancing rapidly, with significant progress made in enhancing and promoting the trails. Partnerships have been forged with trail clubs such as Conquer Together, the Hillbillies, and Garden Route Trail Running (GTR), as well as local businesses, event organisers, and safety initiatives like Keep Our Mountain Safe. Meanwhile, the golf initiative is underway, with efforts focused on positioning the Garden Route as the “Home of Golf, Africa.”

Joan Shaw, Tourism Manager for George, Wilderness and Uniondale, expressed her excitement: “This collaboration represents a bold step forward in how we promote George as a destination. With the private sector taking the lead and government providing strategic support, we’re redefining tourism for our region. Through our ‘George, naturally’ brand, we are creating vibrant new content and initiatives that will position George as a must-visit destination on both national and global stages.”

One of the key milestones of this initiative is the transfer and relaunch of the George Trails website, now managed by the trail community. The revamped platform offers engaging, up-to-date content and remains free for residents and visitors.

Plans include introducing revenue streams, such as advertising and memberships, to ensure ongoing maintenance and safety of the trails. Explore the updated website at www.georgetrails.org.za.

George, Wilderness and Uniondale Tourism invites individuals and organisations to join this transformative project.

Opportunities include partnering on trails maintenance, mapping routes, supporting fundraising efforts, or advertising. Together, let’s position George as a world-class destination for leisure and sports.

For more information, please contact:
• Charl Marais: charl@powervan.co.za or
• Zane Schmahl: zane.schmahl@team.utmb.world
• Joan Shaw: 044 801 9103 | jshaw@george.gov.za

Fireworks Prohibited in George Municipality – A Festive Season Safety Reminder 

With the festive season upon us, George Municipality reminds everyone that the setting off and possession of fireworks, firecrackers, flares, and paper lanterns are strictly prohibited due to high fire risks.

Law enforcement will be conducting inspections and enforcing penalties for non-compliance.

Let’s work together to ensure a safe and peaceful festive season for all.

Watch the video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fO5bGyZevfw

Update: Truck Accident on Road Towards Victoria Bay

We are pleased to inform the public that the staff on-site has successfully moved the truck to a designated parking area. Cleanup activities are still ongoing, but the road is now open in both directions.

Please be aware that there may be minor disruptions as the truck recovery process continues.

We appreciate your patience and understanding.

Truck Accident on Road Towards Victoria Bay

Please be advised that there has been a truck accident on the road towards Victoria Bay, near the train bridge. Currently, only a single lane is open, with a stop-and-go traffic management system in place. Fire and Public Authority (PA) Traffic Services are on scene and working to clear the road.

The cleanup will take some time, as the truck’s load will need to be removed by forklift. Traffic Services will remain on-site for the duration of the operation.

We urge the public to be patient and follow all traffic control instructions.

Sizzling Summer Events in George – Your Ultimate Festive Season Guide!

Get ready for an exciting lineup of events this December and early January:

•Fancourt 10km Run/Walk:
Join the Fancourt 10km Run/Walk for a fun and challenging experience today, 20th Dec ! 🏃🏻‍♀️

•Redberry Farm Charity Trail:
Join the 5km/9km Redberry Farm Trail Run on 21 December for stunning views of the Outeniqua Mountains and scenic fields.

•Boerevintage Gift Market: Shop for unique gifts at Redberry Farm 🛍️

Bush Lapa Music Festival: Dance the night away with live performances in Herolds Bay from December 6th 🎶

•Fancourt Summer Music Concerts and Wine Festival:
Celebrate summer with live music and fine wine at Fancourt from December 15th 🎷🍷

•Christmas Markets at the Museums:
Find handcrafted treasures and festive treats at the museums in George, happening throughout December🎄🛍️

For more details and a full events calendar, visit https://www.visitgeorge.co.za/event.

Stay updated by following George, Wilderness and Uniondale Tourism on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

Let’s make this festive season unforgettable! 🎉✨

Explore George’s Spectacular Beaches!

From surfing at iconic Victoria Bay to family fun at Herold’s Bay, and various tranquil escapes, George offers a beach for every preference! 🌴

🏖️ Victoria Bay:
Ideal for surfing, suntanning, and selfies. Famous for its right-hand point break and the picturesque “Moon Gate.”

🏖️ Herold’s Bay:
A family favourite with warm tidal pools, surf lessons, and local snack vendors.

🏖️ Kaaimans:
A secluded haven featuring a tidal estuary perfect for paddling and fishing(with a permit). Access requires a short hike; remember to bring all necessities.

🏖️ Leentjiesklip:
Great for sunbathing, fishing(with a permit), and whale watching. Enjoy beach braais and observe paragliders launching from Dolphin’s Point.

🏖️ Kleinkrantz:
Ideal for dog lovers and those seeking solitude. Expansive sand dunes lead to endless stretches of beach, perfect for long walks.

🏖️ Wilderness Main Beach:
A family-friendly spot with calm river mouth waters for kids, easy access near Salina’s Beach Restaurant, and a safe environment for relaxation.

🏖️ Gwaiing River Mouth:
A local gem with a serene river mouth suitable for fishing (with a permit) and family outings. Offers excellent picnic spots and scenic views.

Lifeguards:
Lifeguards are on duty at Victoria Bay, Herold’s Bay, Wilderness Main Beach, Gwaing River Mouth and Leentjiesklip from 9 am–5 pm until 13 December, with extended hours from 7 am–7 pm until 31 January.

Coastal Awards:
Wilderness Main Beach, Herold’s Bay, and Victoria Bay have full Blue Flag status. Leentjiesklip continues as a Pilot Blue Flag Beach and Gwaing has been recognized with the Green Coast Award.

💻 Learn more about the beaches in George: https://visitgeorge.co.za/the-best-beaches-around-george/

George Tourism:
044 801 9295
124 York Street www.visitgeorge.co.za

Wilderness Tourism: 044 877 0045
198 George Road www.visitgeorge.co.za

Uniondale Tourism: 044 518 0030
Virtual assistance only www.visitgeorge.co.za

Unplanned Water Outage in Groeneweide Park

We are aware of a water outage in Groeneweide Park that occurred due to a pipe burst.

Municipal teams are currently on-site working to repair the damage.

In the meantime, a water tanker has been dispatched and will be roaming throughout Groeneweide Park to provide water.
The ETR : 3 -4 hours.

We apologise for any inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding as we work to resolve the issue.

Hello, George visitors and residents!

Discover the best of George with 60 THINGS TO DO! Whether you’re exploring scenic attractions, staying safe while you play – especially on the beaches and mountains – or connecting with local services, we’ve got you covered

☀️ 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐥𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐦 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬: https://zurl.co/PRIm
🗺️ 𝐆𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐕𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐨𝐫 𝐆𝐮𝐢𝐝𝐞: https://zurl.co/gLqX
🌊 𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐲 𝐓𝐢𝐩𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐎𝐮𝐭𝐝𝐨𝐨𝐫 𝐅𝐮𝐧: https://zurl.co/tcCx
📲 𝐌𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐩𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬: https://zurl.co/Yxzh
✨ Let’s make your summer experience in George unforgettable in the best way!
#CityofGeorge #GeorgeNaturally #GeorgeSouthAfrica

Unplanned Power Outage in Herold’s Bay

Please be advised that there is an unplanned power outage in Herold’s Bay. Electricians are currently on-site investigating a suspected cable fault.

The estimated time of restoration (ETR) will be provided once the fault has been identified.

We apologise for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience while the necessary repairs are made.
Thank you for your understanding.

ENFORCEMENT OF SPEEDING IN RESIDENTIAL AREAS

The George Municipality is committed to addressing concerns about speeding in residential areas and ensuring the safety of all road users. Speeding poses a significant risk to our community, particularly in neighbourhood streets where children, pedestrians, cyclists, and public transport users are most vulnerable. Residential streets in a number of areas are shared with GO GEORGE buses, adding to the complexity of implementing speed calming measures. The presence of public transport routes on these roads necessitates unobstructed traffic flow for efficient service delivery.

Therefore, speed humps or bumps cannot be installed on these routes as per the Municipality’s policy on Class 1 to 4 roads, which aligns with the National Road Traffic Act, 1996 (Act 93 of 1996) and the National Road Traffic Signs Regulations, 2000.

Speed calming requests are evaluated on a case-by-case basis in accordance with the Municipality’s speed calming warrants, considering factors such as:
• Daily traffic volumes.
• Average vehicle speeds.
• Intersection spacing.
• Road classification.
• Existing speed calming measures.

While some residents request rubber or iron bumps as seen in private developments, these are not authorized for use on public roads under national regulations.

Driver behaviour remains a significant factor in speeding concerns and while physical barriers are not always feasible, targeted interventions by Municipal Traffic officers will be implemented to address the issue. The traffic department will conduct surveys and determine whether the specific area meets the criteria as per the guidelines to conduct speed enforcement.

Residents are reminded that adherence to posted speed limits is mandatory. Violations will result in fines or penalties as per the National Road Traffic Act and persistent offenders may face additional legal consequences. The Municipality encourages residents to drive responsibly and respect speed limits, report areas of concern to the George Municipality Traffic Department for investigation and participate in educational programs to foster safer driving habits.

The George Municipality is dedicated to balancing road safety and access needs while addressing concerns about speeding, particularly in residential areas impacted by public transport routes. We thank residents for their cooperation in creating safer neighbourhoods for all. For inquiries or to report speeding concerns, please contact the George Municipality Traffic Department at 044 878 2400.

OPENBARE KENNISGEWING: WATERKWALITEIT HERINNERING – HAARLEM-GEBIED

George Munisipaliteit wil graag inwoners van die Haarlem-gemeenskap herinner dat die probleem met die bruingekleurde water steeds aangespreek word. Pogings word aangewend om die situasie so vinnig as moontlik op te los.

‘n Watertenk sal steeds deur die betrokke area beweeg om skoon water aan inwoners te voorsien.

Vir veiligheid, moet inwoners asseblief voortgaan om die water te kook voordat dit verbruik word. Water kan steeds vir alle ander nie-drinkbare doeleindes gebruik word.

Ons bedank u vir u volgehoue geduld terwyl ons werk om die waterkwaliteit te herstel.

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WATER QUALITY REMINDER – HAARLEM AREA

George Municipality would like to remind residents of the Haarlem area that the brown-colored water issue is still being addressed. Efforts are underway to resolve the situation as quickly as possible.

A water truck continues to circulate throughout the affected area, providing clean water for residents.

For safety, please continue to boil water before consumption. Water can still be used for all other non-consumption purposes.

We thank you for your continued patience and understanding as we work to restore water quality.

ENATIS SYSTEMS BACK ONLINE


George Municipality is pleased to inform the public that the ENatis system is now back online. As a result, the Driving Licence Centre and Motor Vehicle Registration services are fully operational and available to the public.

Thank you for your patience.