The Springs Monster House has now been turned into a wedding and conference venue and guest house.
The house is the site where the then 36-year-old businessman, who was later dubbed ‘The Springs Monster’, was arrested on May 23, 2014, after his son escaped from the house and begged neighbours for help.
After the man’s arrest and trial, he was found guilty of the attempted murder of his son, defeating the ends of justice, five counts of child abuse and five counts of child neglect, as well as using and dealing in drugs, in the North Gauteng High Court on August 16, 2018.
He was sentenced to 35 years in prison, while his ex-wife received a suspended sentence of five years.
The dark history of the house was unknown to new owner Musa Zwane when he bought the house.
“I initially wanted to use it as student accommodation because the college is nearby.
“After learning about the history of the house, my vision for it changed.
Also see: Breaking news: Springs Monster gets 35 years behind bars
“I wanted it to be a place where healing takes place and where people have a chance to make happy memories.
“Out of the horrible situation, something good can come from it,” says Zwane.
Zwane was at pains to emphasise how he did not want to market the venue as a former monster house.
He says that it will only bring curious onlookers who will simply want to rehash the history of the house and highlight what happened here.
“The stigma of what happened will stay with the house for a long time, but this is a new beginning.
“I am not in the business of profiting off other people’s pain,” says Zwane.
Zwane says when one of the former occupants of the house heard it had been renovated, she came to see the place and while he described the visit as rough on her, he recognised it as part of the healing process.
“My intention is to just make use of the house for the good it can provide to others,” says Zwane.
The venue is not yet officially open, but they have already had guests and bookings.
The house is situated at 36 Plantation Road, Springs Central.
Follow us on our social media platforms:
