Old KFC building a misfit in Gillview
The piece of land belongs to the city but has reportedly been left in a dreadful state for years.
A DILAPIDATED building on the corner of Rifle Range Road and Klip River Drive has become an eyesore for Gillview residents.
The piece of land belongs to the city but has reportedly been left in a dreadful state for years.
Marilyn Swan, Ward 23 committee member for community development, said the derelict building on the land used to house a KFC outlet that moved because its lease was not renewed.
“Over the years this site has become more of an eyesore and a security risk. The area gives smash and grab criminals plenty of opportunities to surprise motorists at this intersection. A fatal hijacking could happen anytime given the proximity of the highway which provides a quick getaway. The Parks Department have done a wonderful job of beautifying the intersections of Booysens Road, Bellairs Drive and Klip River Drive but everyone seems to be ignoring the Rifle Range intersection. It seems that this property has gone out on tender to be leased to a new tenant on several occasions but due to technical issues, no tender has been awarded. In the meantime this area remains a problem,” said Swan.
According to Swan, this intersection is the gateway to the upmarket suburbs of Glenvista, Aspin Hills and Bassonia and the Mall of the South.
City of Johannesburg’s communications office was alerted to this issue on September 15 and reported back that the City is looking into the problem.
Ward 56 Clr Dennis Jane said he has discussed the problem with Swan. “Her concern for the ‘gateway’ is valid as are her comments about various parties being interested in acquiring use of the site. It was only recently identified that the erf in question is actually zoned ‘road reserve’. In order to lease or sell the erf the City needs to change the zoning to business use. I understand this process is underway. Once done the property will again go out on tender as is the legal requirement,” added Clr Jane.
