A MULTI-DISCIPLINARY operation along Helen Joseph Road in the Davenport Precinct revealed significant levels of non-compliance among several local businesses recently, prompting calls for stricter enforcement and swift corrective action.

The operation, involving Area Based Management, DSW Education Unit, Liquor Licensing, Business Licensing, Metro Police, and the Umbilo CPF, was led by Ward 33 councillor Fran Kristopher and targeted around 10 businesses in the area.

“It was very disappointing to find non-compliance and unlicensed establishments operating along the Helen Joseph strip,” said Kristopher, adding that a follow-up operation involving additional departments such as Environmental Health, Fire, Town Planning, and SAPS is already being planned.

Some violations that were uncovered include a lack of valid liquor licences (for on-site consumption), missing or expired health and safety compliance certificates, the absence of entertainment or nightclub licences, improper waste disposal and management, ongoing noise disturbances, and public drinking.

Also Read: Davenport rocked by fatal shooting

Kristopher said the issues have been raised repeatedly at recent stakeholder meetings, with residents expressing concerns about fire hazards, noise, and the overall impact of night-time trade on the surrounding residential community.

“Businesses are required by law to follow regulations – one cannot trade and gain for economical growth and yet not be compliant within the very same city they are operating. These lawless acts need the strong arm of enforcement and I have been lenient enough, allowing these entities more than enough time to get their house in order.

“It’s simple, if you are selling alcohol (on consumption), you require a liquor licence. If you are operating as a restaurant, you require compliance across the health, safety and business regulations – as a business owner you should already know this.”

During the workshop, a number of the businesses were unable to present a valid entertainment or nightclub licence, despite several operating as such. The city’s teams took time to explain the zoning requirements and legal conditions that must be met to remain operational.

“Businesses have 21 days to get their documents in order,” Kristopher warned. “After that, a zero-tolerance approach will be enforced.”

She urged business owners to take immediate steps toward compliance. “Davenport Precinct can and must do better. The onus is now on the business owners to do the right thing, not just for their own operations, but for the well-being of the wider community,” added Kristopher.

For more from Berea Mail, follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.

Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here