The nightmare property on 12th Avenue in Wonderboom South might soon be a thing of the past.
Since 2013, residents have been concerned as a neighbouring property along the spruit has become a nightmare that they claim has affected their safety, health, property values, and well-being.
Metro spokesperson Lindela Mashigo said a notice for demolition would be served shortly.
“The metro has since sourced quotations for the demolition and a decision will be made on the way forward,” said Mashigo.
Mashigo confirmed that a demolition order was granted for the site previously in 2023.
“Thereafter, the respondents filed a notice of appeal.
The appeal has since lapsed and the Tshwane metro legal team advised that we may proceed with the demolition,” said Mashigo.
In a 2015 case brought before the magistrate’s court, the metro sought legal relief against the property owners for erecting unauthorised structures.
The metro requested a court order to demolish the illegal buildings, prevent future construction without approval, and hold the owners accountable for legal costs.
The court acknowledged in September 2023 that the tenants were lawful occupants but said that the structures were illegal.
It held that the metro had met its obligations and that the tenants, along with the property owners, had failed to address the unlawful situation over the years.
The court issued an interdict preventing the owners from constructing further structures and authorised the metro to demolish the illegal buildings after 90 days.
The owners were also ordered to cover the legal costs of the proceedings.
Rekord spoke to the property owner, who said that he was hoping to speak to a developer to develop the property.
Mashigo said that the structures could be lawful, but would require land use rights to be obtained.
“[Land use rights] will authorise that the land and/or buildings may be used for that purpose. “The owner must submit building plans for such structures.”
He explained that if the property owner obtained the land use rights, and building plans were submitted for the structures, then it could be legalised.
In his defence, the property owner said he did not plan for the conditions on the site as they fell on bad times.
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