DA convinces council to blitz illegal landlords

This is according to Ward 22 councillor Benno Robinson.

“The DA welcomes the Ekurhuleni Metro’s planned multi-department blitz this week, on this issue which has been plaguing the Boksburg North community for years,” said Robinson.

“This crackdown will include tackling illegal electrical connections and illegal land use.

“Only swift and drastic action from the metro to uphold the law will halt landlords from converting housesin the area into hostels, some with as many as 52 rooms.

“Basic service delivery to the area is failing and this is compounded by the social problems that accompany illegal building of this magnitude, such as drug trafficking, prostitution, illegal electricity connections and general unhealthy conditions.”

Robinson has already established a working committee of residents who have built up a data base of illegal hostels which has been confirmed through the City Planning Department.

“All the properties identified have not been correctly zoned for their current land use and none of them have submitted building or rezoning applications, with many relying on illegal electricity connections for power,” he said.

“These illegal activities have a knock-on effect and devalue other properties in the area, making it easier for the landlords to buy other properties for next to nothing.

“For this reason it is vital that the metro fast tracks the legal processes of prosecuting all property owners guilty of illegal land use.”

Robinson and the committee plan to host a community meeting on November 30, at 6.30pm, in the Centenary Hall on the corner of Trichardts Road and Fourth Street, to report back to residents on progress made.

Residents who would like to assist the committee may contact Robinson at benno.robinson@ekurhuleni.gov.za, or on 083 630 4872.

DA to take action against illegal hostels in Boksburg North