No timeline on reopening of structurally unstable Vosloorus Library

Amid concerns raised with the Boksburg Advertiser about the ongoing closure of Vosloorus Library, the City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) has confirmed there is no estimated date for its reopening.

According to CoE spokesperson Zweli Dlamini, the library was closed after a geotechnical report found serious structural problems and recommended that the building be demolished and rebuilt for safety reasons.

“The metro was already considering the demolition of the building in 2022 after engineers and consultants raised concerns about the condition of the structure.

“Reports commissioned by the CoE found signs of structural failure, including cracking, settlement and flooding.

“Investigations also found that the building is situated in a dolomitic area and may not have been built with the required foundation design to reduce the risk associated with sinkholes.”

Dlamini added that no refurbishment work has started, and there is no estimated date for the reopening of the library.

“The metro is still waiting for the council’s approval for demolition and for funds to be secured,” he said.

Some of the concerns raised by residents include overgrown grass and the lack of visible progress at the site.

“The city acknowledges residents’ concerns about overgrown grass, and this will be attended to.

“Security personnel are stationed at the site, and no incidents of theft or vandalism have been reported since the facility was closed,” Dlamini said.

While the main library building remains closed, the metro said modular library units have been established on site to continue providing services to the community.

Residents, however, said they hope to see progress on the long-awaited project, with many calling for clearer timelines on when demolition and rebuilding will begin.

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