Wall causes havoc in Paulshof

They argue that incorrect procedures were followed when erecting it and have called it a form of racism and discrimination.

According to residents who utilise the road, the wall blocks taxis and pedestrians, forcing pedestrians to find an alternative route to Leeuwkop prison after being dropped off.

Ward 93 councillor Annette Deppe said the wall was put up illegally, “I told the residents months back that if they want a permanent road closure, they need to apply through the normal channels at council. Unfortunately, they did not, [instead] they took the law into their own hands and there are always consequences.”

Deppe added that the residents had 21 days to demolish the wall.

Albert Gumbo, chairperson of the Paulshof Residents and Ratepayers Association explained that a group of residents had erected the wall to stop the speeding of taxis on the road.

“I, as chairman, understand the residents’ frustration but do not condone any unilateral actions taken without due process,” he said.

According to Gumbo the erection of the wall was done against the advice of the association’s committee who made their objection to a wall without a pedestrian gate absolutely clear.

Deppe added that residents had been complaining about speeding taxis and increased traffic on the road for some time. “If I lived in that area I would also look for a permanent road closure solution,” she said.

According to Deppe, Leeuwkop prison authorities were also responsible for the increased traffic as they didn’t have a transport facility at the prison.

“The commissioner [of Leeuwkop prison] says he will not allow taxis inside the prison to collect his residents. So he is making his problem Paulshof ratepayers’ problem,” she said.

Sanku Tsunke, spokesperson for Leeuwkop prison, said the wall was an inconvenience to many commuters who used taxis to Leeuwkop prison, and he confirmed that he had received numerous complaints regarding the issue.

Harry Mohloare, a Paulshof resident and chairperson of the Sefikeng Primary School governing body said, “The decision to close the road has a negative impact on freedom of movement and [has violated] my rights as a resident. No consideration was given to other residents and ratepayers, let alone other road users like school children who have been using the road as the only access to school.”

The association will consult with the regional director of Region A, Abigail Ndlovu in the new year to resolve the issue to the satisfaction of all.