The state of the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality’s (EMM) nursery in Edenvale has resident Ian Smith concerned for his safety.
Smith, whose home borders the municipal property on Third Avenue, said the overgrown property is an eyesore to the community.
When Smith moved to Edenvale 18 years ago, the nursery was operational.
He said since the property closed 14 years ago, the EMM has not regularly maintained the premises.
“Maintenance of the old nursery has been very erratic,” said Smith.
“When municipal workers go to the property they only maintain a small portion of it.”
Smith said the property has become a security risk and a fire hazard.
“Six years ago I cleared an area of 2.5 metres of vegetation from my wall,” said Smith.
“I cleared the area right down to the soil to create a fire break to protect my property.”
Also read: Budgetary constraints no excuse – ward councilor
One of the plants Smith removed while making the fire break was bugweed, a category one invasive plant species.
In addition to being a fire hazard, Smith believes the overgrowth can be used to a criminal’s advantage, because of the tall and dense vegetation. Smith said criminals could stand among the plants and watch his house from a hidden vantage point.
He said someone could be standing right by his property’s wall and he wouldn’t see them.
“When I do hear a noise in the bushes at night I shine a spotlight to see what’s there,” said Smith.
“Someone could be pointing a gun at me and I would have no clue.”
He was sent from pillar to post when he emailed the EMM to report the overgrown property, said Smith.
Although he was told the property would be attended to, nothing has been done.
Also read: EMM comments on pollution
“I just want the property to be properly maintained,” said Smith.
A request for comment was sent to the EMM’s communication department on March 8.
The NEWS requested comment by March 9 at 2.30pm.
At the time of going to print no comment had been received.
