FOLLOWING numerous muggings and attempted rapes on the vacant plot stretching between Piet Retief Road and Weightman Avenue in Empangeni, the area remains a source of concern for residents.
The derelict and unkempt property which belongs to the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) is a recurrent crime hot spot which has of late led to vigilantism on the part of protective neighbours.
The Zululand Observer contacted DCS Regional Spokesperson Thulani Mdluli for comment on the vacant land problem, but no satisfactory reply was received at the time of going to print.
According to resident Ian Howell, officials were at to the property during the weekend and some of the overgrown grass was cut. However, the land remains in disorder.
‘I suggest DCS clean the land and allow those who live in the surrounding complexes to lease portions for individual gardening. It would be a great initiative,’ Howell said.
After the issue was publicised, it became known that an application to lease the land had been submitted by Empangeni Pastor Phiway Sibiya.
‘According to the municipality, site 37 belongs to the Department of Public Works. I submitted an application and had not received any feedback until the issue was brought to the fore,’ Ps Sibiya said.
‘If neither DCS nor Public Works have interest in resuscitating the land, I would take great pleasure in purchasing or leasing it. I have had an interest in the property for a long time, hence my application,’ he said.
Ward 23 Councillor Andre de Lange said a decision needed to be made as soon as possible as the greatest concern is the safety of the residents.
‘The property must be cleaned and maintained by the department or leased to an individual who will maintain the land.
‘The land is very close to Empangeni CBD and could be used as a great platform to develop a vegetable garden for local vendors,’ Cllr de Lange said.
