UPDATE: Rugheimer responds to mushrooming Spaza shops in Lombardy East
LOMBARDY EAST – it is unfortunate that illegal spaza shops are popping up throughout Johannesburg and it is becoming a major issue.
Ward 81 councillor Irene Rugheimer admits that the mushrooming of illegal spaza shops in the Johannesburg north-east suburbs is a cause for concern.
Rugheimer was responding to a complaint by Greater Lombardy East Residents Association (Glera) on an apparent illegal structure built in their area earmarked for a spaza shop.
The structure, built on the corner of King Edward and Cromwell streets, has been condemned by the association and requesting that the authorities enforce the law.
Abey Mamaregane, a chairperson of the association, claimed that the structure has been built to roof level and more than one room close to the front boundary.
He said he cannot even find building plans for this building and has requested an investigation. “They are busy building without any regard for the by-laws and we request assistance in putting a stop to this problem of illegal construction.”
Rugheimer said it is unfortunate that illegal spaza shops are popping up throughout Johannesburg adding that it is becoming a major issue. “We have to first report it to the building control department to check if plans have been submitted and passed.
“If not, the person is given a written order to stop, however, many times people then go and submit plans.”
The building control department is under a lot of strain considering all the illegal building taking place in the City currently, she said.
Roweena Chetty from the City’s Department of Administration Planning and Law Enforcement said, “We acknowledge receipt of your email contents, planning law enforcement is currently investigating this complaint.
“Once the inspectors have completed their findings they will provide feedback update to all stakeholders.”
Details: Irene Rugheimer 072 409 6594.
