Resident demands feedback on reported contraventions

The EXPRESS previously published an article in which the Cyrildene resident, who did not want his name published, said he and his family are living in hell due to the council’s lack of action.

He said the problem started in 2009. Zoning and environmental health regulations were being contravened by residents at the property.

According to him, a court order was issued but the contraventions continued.

He complained about noise, constant traffic, excess refuse and at least 20 people living on the property which has about 11 rooms.

The man said that in 2010 a development planning official confirmed inspections took place. Inspections apparently revealed the premises was being used as an accommodation establishment and rent was being paid to the owners.

He said this was later denied and money was seen changing hands between a council official and the owner of the property.

According to him, he was informed a court order was served last year and had to be complied with by October 10. An inspection was apparently conducted after this and the resident was told there were no further contraventions,” said the resident.

This led to the resident urging the Public Protector to investigate the matter.

According to a document received by the resident from the Public Protector’s office, it was stated his complaint was forwarded to the City of Johannesburg (CoJ) for investigation.

The document, which Mr Momelezi Kula from the Public Protector’s office confirmed to the EXPRESS was issued by the office, stated the CoJ’s attorneys were to engage with the Sheriff’s office with regards to the enforcement of the order.

The file opened for investigation with the Public Protector’s office was subsequently closed.

The EXPRESS has forwarded several enquiries to the city since May to confirm the status of the resident’s complaint and when action will be taken. At the time of going to print, no comment was received.

@JoziReporter