Kruinhoff Retirement Village residents raise concerns
“When we moved into the village, it was already in bad shape; however, over time it has deteriorated further.”
The condition of Kruinhoff Retirement Village has raised concerns among residents.
Nella Siebert, who has lived at the village with her husband for four years, alleged that the City of Ekurhuleni has ignored complaints and taken limited action to repair infrastructure.
She said that, due to the municipality’s lack of assistance, many residents take it upon themselves to make small repairs around the village at their own expense.
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Siebert raised concerns about water leaks on the property, noting that one leak originating from the roof above their flat caused a continuous stream of water to drip onto her and her husband’s patio.
To avoid wasting water, Siebert estimated that the couple collected between 120 and 140 litres in 24 hours to water their garden.
The couple believed that a broken water pipe or faulty geyser caused the leak.
Siebert said that, due to a continuous water leak, one of her upstairs neighbours was unable to repaint the inside of his home because water was dripping down the walls.
She said on September 3 that the leak had reportedly been repaired.
While visiting the village, several potholes on the main road, which elderly residents frequently use for walks, were also identified.
Siebert also pointed out vegetation growing in gutters, deteriorating fascia boards, and fire extinguishers which were seemingly last inspected in 2012, adding that the village does not have a management committee.
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“We waited about four years to get a flat in the village; the properties and gardens themselves are really beautiful.
“When we moved into the village, it was already in bad shape; however, over time it has deteriorated further.”
Siebert said pensioners who rely on South African Social Security Agency social grants and residents of the village often cannot afford to carry out repairs for which the municipality is responsible.
She said that although a group of contractors arrives in the village each day to work, they appear to have little impact on the issue at hand.
Siebert explained that the contractors would sweep up around the village but could often be found camped around the facility.
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“I don’t know if it’s because they lack the necessary equipment or if it’s because there is no supervisor,” said Siebert.
A request for comment was sent to the City of Ekurhuleni, questioning the infrastructure repairs and the purpose of the contractors in the village.
Comment was requested by September 7 at 10:00.
At the time of going to print, no comment was received.
