A resident has questioned the metro police’s failure to enforce the by-laws on Club Street regarding illegal trailer advertising.
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Resident Shaun Defries claimed the EMPD did not enforce the by-laws in the greater Senderwood area and on Club Street.
“I am fed up with the blatant abuse of the by-laws and lack of motivation from the EMPD and Ekurhuleni to take action.
“On Club Street opposite the Neighbourhood Shopping Centre, you will find about six illegal advertising trailers parked there.
“The businesses advertising with these trailer companies are unknowingly supporting illegal advertising,” stated Defries.
He also questioned the signboards on the walkway of the same street.
“I am not attacking anyone, but we have rules for a reason. We have to do something to make the country governable,” he added.
According to the EMPD’s spokesperson Kelebogile Thepa, trailers are not allowed to park on a road median, road island or traffic island, and they must not obstruct motorists or pedestrians.
“If found to be contravening the by-laws, the EMPD can issue a verbal warning, and if the trailer in question continues to be non-compliant, we can impound it,” said Thepa.
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She said her department does enforce the by-laws whenever reported or when they find such cases. To report matters, residents may call 086 054 3000.
Previously, the CoE said outdoor advertising had to be approved by the municipality before being displayed, as outlined by the Billboards and the Display of Advertisements by-laws.
The CoE said many outdoor advertising activities happen across the city without the relevant approval.
“Some of these could be a danger to the public, property, and the environment. To correct the situation and ensure things happen within the confines of the necessary by-laws, the city has instituted a process to assess all non-compliant outdoor advertising structures erected on council-owned properties or within road reserves under its jurisdiction to ensure compliance.
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“To this end, the owners of illegal outdoor advertising erected on council properties or within road reserves under the local authority’s jurisdiction will be contacted so they can be assisted in obtaining municipal approval of compliance with the by-laws, and the conclusion of a formal lease agreement with the CoE in respect of the advertising sign(s),” said metro spokesman Zweli Dlamini.
The metro claimed to have acquired the services of a contractor to facilitate this process and handle new applications.
The city encouraged the owners of illegal outdoor advertising signs, who are approached by representatives of the appointed service provider, to cooperate so that the process moves faster and seamlessly.
Non-compliance with the by-laws and/or policies is punishable by the city.
