Police houses assessed
An inspection to assess the cost of repairs to properties designated for occupation by police officers was conducted by the Department of Public Works recently.
Residents recently questioned when the department intended fixing the properties in Bayne Avenue, Cyrildene.
Earlier this year, the EXPRESS published an article stating that vagrants were making use of the two unoccupied properties and that they were an eyesore.
When the EXPRESS visited the houses, it found that thieves had ripped out all the fittings and equipment of value.
Doors were removed, ceilings were torn down or had collapsed, toilets and other fittings were broken and the floors were damaged.
Police officers questioned why the houses were left unattended by the department and said there were colleagues who were in need of a place close by to live.
The vagrants were removed by the Cleveland SAPS and security guards were stationed at the houses to prevent them from moving back in.
Last week, Mr Thami Mchunu, from the department, said the estimated costs of repairs will be part of the 2014/15 budget.
He said security guards are still on-site to make sure vagrants do not move back in.
“The houses are secured and cleaned by the Department of Public Works,” he said.
He said the repairs will be completed in the next financial year.
