[feature request] Upgrade/replace react-leaflet-markercluster

[thisislawatts]

Is your feature request related to a problem? Please describe. We have come to realize that the react-leaflet-markercluster library is no longer actively maintained and has been deprecated. This poses potential risks for our project, as we might not receive necessary updates, security patches, or support for newer versions of dependencies.

Describe the solution you'd like I propose that we upgrade to a more actively maintained library or framework that offers marker clustering capabilities for React Leaflet. This will ensure that we remain up-to-date with the latest best practices, security patches, and are in alignment with the evolving ecosystem. Additionally, transitioning to a more modern library can provide enhanced performance, better documentation, and extended features that can benefit our application.

Describe alternatives you've considered

• Custom Implementation: We could consider creating a custom marker clustering solution tailored for our needs. This approach might be more time-consuming initially but will give us complete control over its functionality and behavior.
• Other Libraries: We can explore other existing libraries or plugins that might have sprung up as alternatives to react-leaflet-markercluster. Given the popularity of Leaflet within the React community, there might be newer and better-maintained options available.
• Sticking with the Current Library: Another option is to continue using the deprecated library, accepting its limitations. However, this might expose us to potential vulnerabilities or compatibility issues in the future.

Additional context As our application continues to scale and evolve, it's crucial for us to ensure that all our dependencies are actively maintained and secure. Transitioning away from deprecated libraries is a proactive approach to mitigate future risks and challenges. I recommend forming a small team to research and test potential replacements, ensuring a smooth transition with minimal disruptions to our end-users.