Ugh – a horrible mess in an open field off Argyle Street that threatens to choke the Steenkoolspruit with effluent and debris

Dundee prides itself on its historical heritage. This will be showcased in all its glory at Talana Live from October 17-19. However, there is a blight that is spoiling the aesthetics of our fair town.
The Steenkoolspruit, that runs through Dundee and where coal was first discovered in the area, is choking in a smorgasbord of rampant dumping and leaking sewage effluent.
A Courier investigation into the state of the river has revealed a disturbing scenario. The open land, between Argyle Street and the Craigside settlement, is now a dumping ground of building rumble and domestic refuse.
The pungent smell of sewage hangs in the air thanks to a manhole which residents say has been leaking effluent for weeks. The effluent makes its way into the Steenkoolspruit.
Following this trail of effluent to the stream reveals a shocking amount of pollution discarded – car bumpers, clothing and hundreds of plastic bottles.

 

Sadly, the yellow markers which were laid out years ago to indicate the movement of the British troops during the Anglo Boer War have either been pushed over or moved.
Another site of historical interest is an abandoned graveyard on Argyle Street.
The area has been fenced off but is accessible on foot.
There are about 18 graves but only one name is visible on one headstone: W Hepburn, 1897.
Pat Rundgren, a local historian and author, said the graveyard was the original town cemetery and the human remains moved years ago.
Residents who spoke to the Courier commented that the authorities should urgently clean up the entire area as the Steenkoolspruit – which flows into the Buffalo River – is a health risk.
“Why can’t they clean up and turn the area into an attraction trim park? This will perhaps preserve Dundee’s bid to become a real tourist attraction.”