Land ownership row halts activities

THE run-up to a Child Protection Week programme in Parsonsvlei in Nelson Mandela Bay was cut short yesterday when a dispute over land ownership triggered heated arguments at the gathering.

Security services at the Westbrook residential development prevented further activities from taking place after receiving complaints about noise from an informal settlement at the development.

Westbrook owner Clifford Oosthuizen bought the land in 2007. More than 40 families, who have been living there for decades, went to the Port Elizabeth High Court last year seeking clarity about the rightful ownership.

ANC councillor Lindelwa Mettavainio said: "They [security staff] told us we do not have permission to be here, but the case is still in court and rightful ownership must still be decided. Who are they to say we have to leave?" The programme took place inside a large tent erected next to the settlement, on land which belonged to Westbrook.

Oosthuizen could not be reached for comment. - Riaan Marais