Councillor aims to remove the homeless

“We have a few homeless people living in the area. One of them has taken up residency in the bus shelter on the corner of Oxford and Riviera roads,” she explained.

“This morning he lit a fire to warm himself – and nearly set fire to the bus shelter as well. When it is raining people waiting for the bus must stand in the rain as we are unable to use the bus shelter.”

Doubel is one of a many residents who have communicated their concerns but also requested that a humane manner be adopted to move the homeless.

In response to similar concerns, councillor for Ward 90, Gordon Mackay said that the council had been in talks with the Department of Social Development to resolve the issue.

“We are aware of the increasing number of people living in and taking shelter on the streets of Joburg. There are plans to build a facility for the homeless in the northern Joburg suburbs, as there isn’t one at the moment,” said Mckay.

“Building of the facility will commence soon, but in the meantime we would like to call all residents to sign a petition canvassing for council to improve bylaws concerning the removal of displaced people in the area.”

Mackay said he was aware of all the homeless that had found refuge on Jukskie River and the Modderfontein Spruit.

“We find that these areas have become very polluted as some homeless people travel with the litter they have collected for recycling,” said Mackay.

“Our vision is to develop a recycling pod where they may all go without polluting the area.”

Hoping residents will get actively involved in the initiative; he requested that people sign the petition.