AUTO displays held on Sundays at Port Natal School in Sphiwe Zuma (Queen Mary) Avenue, Umbilo have been identified as the cause for bylaw contraventions on the road, says ward councillor Mmabatho Tembe.
Tembe said she had received complaints surrounding the auto displays since last year and had asked Metro Police to investigate as a matter of urgency.
Resident and business owner, Dave Rabie, said the auto displays are held every Sunday from 8am until late afternoon.
“We have a massive problem with patrons and vendors of the auto display leaving litter and beer bottles behind on the island outside the school. To make matters worse, they are now urinating in the street. This filth is left in the street and on the centre island and on a Monday morning it is still there,” he said.
Rabie said the vehicles cause a traffic hazard by parking on the island in the road for motorists using Sphiwe Zuma and those crossing the intersection.
“They double park and do repairs on the island. Number plates are changed and engine oil drained and left behind. I have tried calling Metro Police but they have failed to enforce any of the bylaws applicable. We have been given tickets previously for parking on the island in search of shade in summer,” said Rabie.
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Councillor Tembe said the issue had been ongoing since before August last year.
“As this is a bylaw issue, I contacted Metro Police, and following a response in August, I have had no further correspondence. I have asked for an update on the matter. I have asked Metro Police to find out who gave permission for the auto displays to take place,” she said.
School principal, Mr BD van Jaarsveld confirmed that the school hired the field out for the displays.
“We thank you for raising the issue on what is happening in the road near Port Natal School, as this is a public school with the best interest in the community. We share these concerns and have reported it to SAPS. We received commitment from SAPS that they will send officers around to the area to ensure that the bylaws of the City are adhered to,” he said.
Responding to a query by Berea Mail, Snr Supt Parboo Sewpersad from Metro Police said they were aware of the contraventions taking place.
“We have been conducting enforcement and will continue to enforce,” he said.
He urged the community to contact the 24 hour control on 031 361 0000 with complaints.
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