Illegal dumping is one of the major challenges in Malvern.
Malvern is an eyesore and a health hazard to its residents.
Illegal dumping, filth and illegal hawkers on the pavements are some of the concerns residents have.
“As residents, we are very concerned about the area. Dumping and car mechanics operate on the streets. People are breaking bylaws and trucks are speeding on busy streets. Drug use is also bad,” said resident Ntombifuthi Ndlovu.
Illegal dumping is one of the biggest challenges in Malvern.
“The youth around here have nothing to do. There is no youth centre to help them.”
Residents are also concerned that a public meeting has not been held by the Ward 118 councillor Neuren Pietersen to address issues of the area. Pietersen said he was aware of the challenges facing Malvern and said he would address them.
“On the issue of the public meetings, I have not put up a notice at Spur for people to attend because I have been attending meetings arranged by third parties in and around Malvern,” explained Pietersen.
The councillor said these meetings have been held outside the substation in Persimmon Street, and at the open land on Pandors Street, Jumpers informal settlement, Toronga Station and NGK Kerk on King Street.
Filth on the streets is a big concern for local residents.
“We will be dealing with the [hawkers] issue in the months to come. What must be considered is that Jules Street is a legal hawker trading area,” said Pietersen. “The City has in the past tried to clear the hawkers and trading on the street only to be told that as a result of not issuing the licences in an ordered manner, it rendered the entire operation useless and a waste of policing resources.
“With the high unemployment rate this issue needs a far more complex solution involving economic development.”