The City of Ekurhuleni is calling on residents and stakeholders to participate in shaping a new Problem Buildings Bylaw to tackle abandoned, derelict, hijacked, and defaced buildings across the municipality.

Through the public participation process, the city is encouraging community members to share their views and suggestions on the proposed bylaw, which is intended to help address safety concerns, improve urban management and restore neglected properties in local neighbourhoods.

Residents can access the draft bylaw by downloading it online or by visiting their nearest Customer Care Centre, public library or Building Control office.

The municipality says public input will play an important role in refining the bylaw before it is formally adopted.

A series of public participation sessions will take place at various venues across the city between 09:00 and 12:00, providing residents with the opportunity to engage directly with officials and raise concerns about problematic buildings in their communities.

The sessions will be held at the following venues:

• March 12 – Brakpan Indoor Sport Centre

• March 18 – Bedfordview Town Hall

• March 24 – Boksburg City Hall

• March 25 – Nigel Town Hall (Side Hall)

• March 26 – Alberton City Hall

• March 27 – Germiston City Hall

Those unable to attend the sessions can submit written comments via email to Thapelo.Mogatusi@ekurhuleni.gov.za or Godfrey.Rakhivhani@ekurhuleni.gov.za

The submission deadline is April 15.

Residents can download the draft bylaws.

Municipal officials say community participation is vital in helping the city develop effective regulations that will support safer, cleaner and better-managed neighbourhoods throughout Ekurhuleni.