Safety concerns over Herolds Bay ‘cliff of death’

Posted by Anita Froneman on 30 January 2020

A popular tourist attraction, Voëlklip cliff near Herolds Bay in the Western Cape has made headlines recently after three separate cars crashed down the side of the cliff resulting in numerous deaths in the last few months.

The area is a much-loved picnic, fishing and hiking spot. However, it has been called the ‘cliff of death’ due to dozens of fatal accidents where motorists have driven off the cliff.

In the latest incident, a man in his forties drove over the cliff in a rented car believed to be from Port Elizabeth. His body was later recovered. The incident was witnessed by hikers who alerted the police.

According to News24, the area is on private property but the road leading to the lookout point is an unproclaimed provincial road accessible to the public.

Chantel Edwards-Klose, George Municipality spokesperson stated that they do not have jurisdiction over the the informal viewing area at Voëlklip as it is is privately-owned, but that the Western Cape Department of Transport and Public Works are the roads authority and have confirmed that they ‘are working on the solution following discussions with several stakeholders including the owner of the property.’

Residents in the area have expressed their concern on Facebook for the safety of tourists and locals visiting the lookout point. Many are commenting that barricades, warning signs, cameras and security guards should be put in place as a safety measure, while many others are asking ‘How many more must die before action will be taken?’

 

Image: Instagram/r_odhi






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