DRD Gold recently confirmed that it will not erect a new fence around the field identified as Farm Leeuwpoort 113-IR as the fences were stolen and vandalised in the past.
Residents feel the field is unkempt and that the illegal dumping taking place in the field is attracting rodents, which cause several health risks.
ALSO READ: Farrar Park residents to clean up illegal dumping site
“The company will not erect a fence. From past experience, as previously stated, fences are stolen and/or vandalised, and the cost associated with replacement and/or repair becomes prohibitive,” said James Duncan, DRD Gold spokesperson.
“Signs will be erected, warning would-be offenders of the consequences of illegal dumping on the company’s property and advising members of the public how they can assist by reporting instances of illegal dumping they witness.”
He added they hope that through our own and the public’s vigilance, theft and vandalism of the signage, also experienced in the past, can be avoided this time.
“We have rolled out a programme in terms of which members of the public will be rewarded for providing information leading to the successful prosecution of offenders.”
The company and other stakeholders need to jointly assess its overall effectiveness of the trench dug to prevent illegal dumping, or otherwise, over a sensible period of time. Then a decision can be taken jointly about whether it stays or not.
Residents say they will meet with Ward 32 Clr Marius de Vos and the CEO of DRD Gold next week.
Due to a high volume of illegal dumping in and around the field, residents initiated clean-up sessions, which started on November 14.
Duncan said DRD Gold will remove the illegally dumped goods.
“An area of dense vegetation appears to be favoured by illegal dumpers as a screen and the company is looking into removing or thinning out the vegetation to allow for clearer lines of sight.”
READ: Rat infestation hits Farrar Park due to Illegal dumping
