This week, several residents took to social media to complain that they struggle to do business at Pep Stores at the corner of Kerk and Park streets in Fochville.
At the end of the month, in particular, hawkers occupy most of the sidewalk in front of the business.
“You can hardly walk on the sidewalk because there are so many hawkers; no one can use the ramp for the disabled,” one resident complained.
Other irate shoppers confirmed this. As a result, one even prefers to do her shopping in Potchefstroom.
When the Herald checked on Monday, the hawkers still occupied at least half of the sidewalk. How-ever, they agreed to move up a bit if their stalls caused problems.
The Herald took the issue to the municipality on Tuesday. As public spaces, the sidewalks fall under their jurisdiction.
The municipality promised to attend to the matter.
“Hawkers are not allowed, and the municipality will arrange law enforcement.
Merafong has identified appropriate sites for hawkers and is awaiting the council’s approval,” the spokesperson said.
