Authorities aim to give Louis Botha Avenue a major revamp

The infamous Louis Botha Avenue is expected to receive a major clean-up after residents have complained to the authorities about illegal activities happening along the road, including illegal businesses.

It is understood the law enforcement agencies have started to remove some of the illegal businesses operating on the roads’ pavements and this is due to a recent complaint by restaurant owners.

Owners complain about businesses that sell food on the pavements without proper health and safety certificates subjecting customers to health risks.

They claim that some of these businesses sell food in front of shoe repairers shops and motor mechanics businesses and they don’t even have shelters.

The businesses say the food sellers are not compliant with the City of Johannesburg’s bylaws and they are calling on the authorities to intervene.

In the North Eastern Tribune (Week Ending 17 August), owners complained about these issues and it is understood that the authorities have heeded their pleas.

According to the residents, the City’s authorities have begun to take action with the Metro police by starting to shut down some of the illegal businesses on the pavements.

“They came as soon as the article was published in the Tribune and removed them,” said one owner, who wishes to remain anonymous.

“This is the first step and we hope they will ensure that these illegal businesses close indefinitely. We are happy that the clean-up has started and we hope the authorities continue to enforce the law.”

Ward 73 councillor, Eleanor Huggett has confirmed that the City’s law enforcement authorities have heeded the call and they’re now instilling order.

“The authorities started a concerted effort to clear Louis Botha Avenue of illegal activities,” Huggett told the Tribune.

Following Mayor Herman Mashaba’s meeting at Jabula Recreation Centre in Sandringham, much can be expected to clear Louis Botha Avenue of illegal activities.

Huggett cited illegal businesses, unruly behaviour by taxi drivers, the unsightly environment and crime as some of the major targets along the arterial road, especially in Norwood and Orange Grove.

“Mayor Mashaba listened intently to the concerns of the residents concerning Louis Botha Avenue during his public meeting, particularly the reckless driving of taxis,” said Huggett.

“Up to this point taxi drivers are getting away with continuously breaking the law with no consequences. People’s lives are regularly endangered by dangerous driving practices.”

She said Mashaba has promised to address the matter and even instil order along the infamous road.

Details: Eleanor Huggett 071 785 8068.

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