Anonymous writes:
I'm writing to bring attention to the neglected historical gem on Long Street, the kloof.
This beautiful site, once a popular spot for picnics, weddings and photography, has been overgrown and abandoned for years.
Recently, there has been a concerted effort to clean up the kloof, and we'd like to thank the parks department for its input and assistance in removing the rubble. However, we're finding it challenging to maintain it alone.
We're concerned that a huge palm tree in the kloof is damaging a beautiful African coral tree. Large branches have fallen from this tree, and there's a possibility that the stone bridge will be damaged.
We've requested that the parks department consider removing the offending palm tree to save the African coral tree and bridge. We appeal to the community and local authorities to help restore the kloof to its former glory. Let's preserve this iconic Mossel Bay landmark for future generations.
The Mossel Bay Municipality replies:
Thank you for raising concern regarding this matter.
Unfortunately, the situation is not as straightforward as it may appear. The gorge (kloof) referred to is only partially municipal property, with the remainder falling on private erven, which significantly limits the municipality's ability to intervene. In the areas where the large palm trees are located, there is more than one tree, and it is therefore not entirely clear which specific tree is being referred to.
In other sections of the gorge, the vegetation is currently so dense that there is no safe access or thoroughfare. There are also stone walls in the area, similar to those at the Point Cemetery, and at least one of the palm trees has been planted within such a stone-lined area.
Removing a tree in this environment poses a significant risk, not only of damage to the stone walls, but potentially also to the existing footbridge, whether the tree is removed or left in place.
The upper section of the gorge, from 6th Avenue, is currently completely inaccessible. The pathway that was used years ago now forms part of a private property, which means that access to the gorge is only possible from the side of Long Street/George Road.
Should a tree be removed, it would therefore have to be done exclusively from that side.
It is important to note that the removal of a large tree under these circumstances could be very costly, falling well outside of the current available municipal funds. In addition, such work would require highly specialised and experienced contractors, as there is no simple or safe direction in which such a tree could be felled.
GIS data suggests that there may be property boundary encroachments, which must also be taken into consideration. The municipality is acting within its mandate and available resources, but in this case those capabilities are very limited.
As a next step, it is proposed that consultation take place with Mossel Bay Heritage, as well as a horticultural expert who works with Heritage, to obtain further professional input.
An additional challenge that must also be considered is safety. When pathways are fully cleared, they may become escape routes by criminal elements. Conversely, when areas are too densely overgrown, they can become hiding places. To date, no complaints have been received in this regard, but it remains an important consideration.
The municipality appreciates both the concern and understanding while this complex matter continues to be assessed.
