Infamous ablution ‘shells’ finally fall
Public reports seemed to indicate that the 'empty shells' were facilitating 'nefarious' activities in the area.
AFTER nearly a year of campaigning by local authorities, the four thatched-roof toilets on Riverside Road have been demolished.
In November last year, Brian Daish of the Umgeni Park Neighbourhood Watch identified the site as a problem area following a flood of complaints from local residents.
However, communication and responsibility have been thrust back and forth for months. By Wednesday last week, the shells had been reduced to rubble.
Public reports seemed to indicate that the ’empty shells’ were facilitating ‘nefarious’ activities in the area.
Prostitutes had allegedly used the structures to service their clients, and used condoms were a regular sight. Criminals were also reportedly hiding in the structures when fleeing from the police or a crime scene.
It is also believed vagrants used the stalls as ablution facilities, despite the fact that some of the toilets had been stolen and the fittings disconnected. They had also become a health hazard.
“It had been a strain on police resources, as they had to constantly respond to the numerous public complaints relating to the site. And while it is the police’s duty to respond to all reported criminal activities, it was taking away resources and time that could be spent on other urgent cases and incidents,” said Daish.
Councillor Shaun Ryley expressed a sentimental sadness over the destruction, but added that it was a ‘good move’ by the municipality.
“They were not an eyesore and had been a landmark in the area for a long while. It is a pity that they were not properly maintained. But because of that they were contributing to the crime and dilapidation of the area, and this will definitely help improve the safety of the public,” he said.
The criminal elements in Riverside Road and the M4 in Durban North have recently been highlighted after several cyclists were attacked in the early hours of the morning, prompting several municipal departments and police stations as well as the Greenwood Park Community Policing Forum to initiate a series of projects to improve the safety and aesthetics of the area.
