A CONCERNED and passionate resident of Musgrave is breathing a sigh of relief as she witnesses the fruits of her efforts to clean up and restore the iconic La Bella restaurant.

Lisa Thomson reminisced about the days when La Bella was the epicentre of entertainment and pure fun. Recent years have rendered the establishment derelict, exposed to drug dealers, homeless people, prostitution and filth.
Thomson’s worry consumed her daily when she passed the establishment as she took her regular walks. She was always greeted with evidence of neglect and criminal activities.

@caxtonlocalmedia La Bella’s looking better—but not quite beautiful yet. Earlier this month the once-popular restaurant was a haven for rats and filth but today the iconic Musgrave spot is finally seeing some progress. Still pockets of grime, but residents are hopeful this clean-up is just the beginning.This morning Caxton Local Media joined residents and took a walk through the restaurant that holds many fond memories for people living across Durban. The property is owned by the eThekwini’s Electricity Unit. #bereamail #labellarestaurant #musgrave ♬ original sound – caxtonlocalmedia

Today, La Bella looks like it has a little bit of life injected into it. It has been cleaned up and the homeless no longer call it a home. The filth is disappearing, and the removal of old rails and shadings / awnings is underway.

Thomson shared, “I have always been in love with La Bella; for me and other residents it was a catalyst in Musgrave. My heart sank when I witnessed its state. It was slowly becoming a health and security risk, and surrounding properties were at risk of devaluation.
“I took it upon myself to be part of change. I worked tirelessly with the municipality to change the face of the restaurant. Neighbouring retirement home, a school and a mosque on Musgrave Road were all affected by this eyesore. It was an utmost pleasure to work with them and to continue to do so until every corner of La Bella is clean and secure.

Also read: WATCH | Derelict La Bella eyesore breeds fear among residents

“I hope that once all is done, La Bella can become an entertainment gem again, and bring back the glory of olden days when it was a hub of life when people would gather and have fun,” added Thomson.

She thanked the Musgrave Ratepayers Association administration, the municipality and residents and businesses who rallied behind the La Bella project.

Residents joined forces with the MRPA administration and took the lead in tackling this head on. They reported that this is the first of many projects lined up, having added much value into Musgrave since it’s inception two years ago.
As the clean-up and shape-up continue, the neighbouring Berea Park has become a new home for the homeless. But the face of La Bella is culminating into a proper entity in Musgrave.

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