The Proudly Harties organisation is proposing that a 165m fence be erected at the foot of the mountain in Schoemansville to safeguard the mountain. The envisioned fence would block access to the open section across Wimpy.

Location of the proposed fence.

“We have had a lot of positive reactions from the community and stakeholders. However, the work is a lot and labourers and donations are few,” Proudly Harties said.
In the last two months, the organisation has put up Private Property and No Entry notices, as well as danger tape while waiting for financial contributions, but the tape and notices have been repeatedly broken and vandalised.
“Over the past weekend, residents were again bombarded by loud chanting throughout the night by groups up in the mountain. It is not the only group defacing our section of the Magalies Biosphere. Vagrants, litterbugs, drug-users and those seeking cover from law-enforcement agencies are known to take cover in this section. In the past four months, both our community rugby and running clubs have suffered break-ins. This is directly linked to access gained through this specific open section of 165 meters.”
Proudly Harties has consulted with the police, nature conservation department and other stakeholders over the proposed 165m razor wire fence. According to the organisation, the parties agreed to the proposal.
The fence and gate will cost around R60 000. Access to the mountain will be conditional with a lock and key to start off with, and in the long run, a pin code. Residents currently using the mountain for walking their dogs are advised to make contact with the Rugby and Marathon Clubs to arrange for permitted access from their grounds.
“We are appealing to businesses and households to make a direct donation towards the fence using our secure online payment platform https://proudlyharties.co.za/donate/ and select “Security fence and bottom of Mountain” (in green). Alternatively, please volunteer workers for digging and construction,” Proudly Harties said.
“Our vision is to restore the former glory of the mountain as a pristine space for recreational activities and conservation, restoring peace and safety to our residents and tourists and protecting our property and its value.”
For more information, contact admin@proudlyharties.co.za.