What does a visitor need to gain access via motorized transport?
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The 24-hour gate consists of two cameras and a boom. The driver lowers their window, swipes a hand in front of the sensor and the boom lifts. The cameras capture an image of the driver, other occupants, the vehicle, and the registration details. The same process is repeated when the vehicle exits.
What does a pedestrian need to enter via the 24-hour gate?
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No documentation is required. As part of setting up the monitored access area, residents submit the phone details of staff to the monitoring company, who records them on the database. The staff member calls the pedestrian gate (missed call — no cost), and the gate releases for a few seconds. The gate is monitored by camera; if it remains open beyond the allowed time, the control room is alerted and the patrol unit is notified.
What happens when there is a power outage at the gates?
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A UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply) unit with a backup generator is installed at each gate to ensure uninterrupted service regardless of load shedding or power failures.
How do non-residents or through-traffic access the area?
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Non-residents must use the 24-hour gates only. At the entry boom they lower their window, swipe their hand in front of the sensor, and the boom lifts. The cameras capture the driver, passengers, vehicle, and registration. The same process is followed on exit.
Who is managing this project and under what oversight?
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The initiative was originally driven by residents who recognised the security challenges and invested their time at no remuneration. Once the scheme was approved, residents elected a committee who manage the process, appoint service providers, and oversee day-to-day operations.
How are the funds managed and are finances transparent?
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The capital deposit of approximately R3,800 per household was paid into an attorney's Trust Account, refundable if the scheme did not reach the 67% participation threshold. The Trust Account is audited annually. A non-profit company has been registered to manage all funds, with full accountability to members.
If we use plate recognition, how do visitors enter without a guard?
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Visitors enter through the visitor entrance. When a visitor stops at the boom they open their window and swipe their driver's licence. Simultaneously: (1) an image of the driver is taken, (2) the driver's licence is scanned, and (3) the vehicle registration is photographed. This grants entry — far safer than a guard opening the boom for all and sundry.
What if a visitor gets stuck at the boom or the boom malfunctions?
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An intercom at the driver's licence scanner connects directly to the off-site monitoring office, which handles queries in real time. Regular service providers quickly learn the system. We also vet preferred tradespeople (plumbers, electricians) for the area and offer reduced community rates in exchange for being vetted preferred suppliers.
What if the boom stops working entirely?
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Our service contract with the security company ensures they respond immediately. They can open the boom manually while the maintenance contractor repairs the fault. During peak morning and afternoon hours, a security officer is stationed at the boom gate to ensure smooth operations.
Once someone enters, how is safety maintained inside?
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CCTV cameras are installed throughout the complex and monitored by the off-site control room. Dedicated security patrol vehicles respond if anything suspicious is detected. Every entry is logged with time, driver image, and vehicle details.
What about cyclists?
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Cyclists use the boom gate and swipe in and out. Residents who cycle have confirmed they have no objection to the minor detour to the boomed gate — the added security is worth it.
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