EDITOR – We, the residents of Lena Ahrens Road and surrounds, would like the right to respond to the article in the Berea Mail dated 5 June, Residents oppose B&B application.
We are concerned that the substantive basis of our objections, namely, why the neighbourhood would be so galvanised to object to the operation of this illegal B&B as to go to the High Court, has been ignored in this article and respond as follows.
From the outset, the Glenwood community has gone to every extent to communicate our concerns with the owners, who made promises which were not kept, and the highly disruptive activities at 356 that continued. From occupation by the new owners in May 2019, no 356 has been operating as a Bed and Breakfast, with 10 bedrooms, sleeping 39 people. The current set up, has between 2-4 double beds per room. Rooms have also been advertised by the hour, and the house can be hired for public events. Unauthorized alterations have also taken place to accommodate the above number of guests.
There was absolutely no management control or application of house rules as noise nuisance from the large number of guests continued on a regular basis into the early hours of the mornings. Complaints to City Police are well documented. In addition, guests often arrive in taxis and busses at all hours of the day and night, none of which can be accommodated on site. This results in parking on Sir Duncan Rd as well as Lena Ahrens Rd, parking on the pavement or the center islands along with residual trash left behind.
In addition, this section of Lena Ahrens is notoriously dangerous with frequent serious accidents, as well also used by the broader community for recreational purposes which they cannot do due to the obstructing vehicles.The situation between the community and the owners of 356 had deteriorated to such an extent and the level of nuisance to the neighborhood so great, that over 30 households took the unprecedented step in instituting an interdict to Cease and Desist operation to this illegal business. This was after the city did not appear interested in resolving this issue, despite volumes of communications to the city in this regard.
The City of Durban was also cited as an party in this action. To add insult to injury, the above matter was also taken at our own expense. An interim interdict was awarded by the High Court on 23 December 2019. This was subsequently disregarded by the owners of 356, who continued to operate. The community then sort a Contempt of Court Order; this matter is still to be heard.
The final interdict to Cease and Desist was granted on 13 March 2020 with costs. The Glenwood community is concerned that the granting of B&B rights in this instance will be again abused as at no time have the applicants exhibited an understanding or respected the surrounding community. Allowing an establishment of this magnitude will without a doubt, impact surrounding property values and severely impact the ability of the surrounding families to enjoy their property on an equal footing as is their right.Affected Residents Lena Ahrens Road
Affected Residents
Lena Ahrens Road
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