AN incomplete and aesthetically unappealing construction site on Anthony Road in Gillitts continues to be a source of frustration for neighbours and residents in the area, years after breaking ground.
Kathy Jones, a neighbour, reported that the construction has been progressing at an “agonisingly” slow pace and they’ve had to endure the “unsightly, dangerous and disgusting mess” for three years.
“Huge trenches have been dug, there is barbed wire and garbage lying around everywhere, and this is where we often sight little wild deer and other animals,” said Jones.
Ward 10 councillor, Rick Crouch, reported the construction site to building inspectors and the city’s Land Use Management on 12 June, and six days later they informed him that a 90-day notice had been issued to the property owner.
“The problem is, as the laws are now, they are only required to do some work on the site every 90 days or so to be in compliance. That is why you only see contractors on site every few weeks,” said Crouch.
According to Crouch the building inspectors and Land Use Management have made no attempts to follow up on the construction site, and the property is virtually in the same condition as it was in June.
“It should not be my or local residents’ responsibility to again contact building inspectors five months later to prompt them to follow up. They should have a schedule of follow ups needed on these properties, of which there are many in Ward 10.
“Since my original complaint I have received numerous complaints from residents regarding this property,” said Crouch.
Residents are encouraged to report any incomplete construction sites to the building inspectors on ashbey.sika kane@durban.gov.za and cc Councillor Rick Crouch in on the email at councillor@ward10.co.za.
