Sunninghill residents petition against deteriorating service delivery
Sunninghill residents are fed up with potholes, sewage, and non-working streetlights, and they're taking a stand.
Frustrated and fed up with what they describe as a ‘shocking lack of service delivery,’ residents of Sunninghill turned out in force on May 3 to sign a petition organised by the Sunninghill Community Ratepayers Association (SCRA).
The event, held to give residents a collective voice, underscored growing anger over deteriorating infrastructure and what many perceive as a breakdown of local governance.
The petition highlights the urgent concerns plaguing the suburb. According to the SCRA, potholes are rampant, roads are crumbling, and residents report near-daily occurrences of sewage flowing through the streets. Burst water pipes and streetlights that have been non-operational for six months or more add to the growing list of grievances.
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Beyond the physical decay, residents are also deeply concerned about ignored by-law infringements. These violations are increasing daily, creating an atmosphere of ‘complete lawlessness.’
Linda Gildenhuys, the chairperson of the association said, “We are seeing a clear lack of respect shown to those who abide by the law. Many residents are battling under difficult economic conditions, paying their rates and taxes, and receiving little to nothing in return. Our voices have been ignored for too long, and this petition is our way of saying enough is enough.”
The response to the petition signing was described as overwhelming, and many residents who were unable to attend due to being away expressed their frustration at missing the opportunity to participate.
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In response to the strong turnout and demand, the SCRA has opened its office to residents and will be hosting another signing session later this week to accommodate those who missed the initial event. In addition, dedicated volunteers have taken copies of the petition and are going door-to-door within their complexes to gather further signatures.
“Our suburb is in a terrible state, there’s no denying that. But what is truly amazing is the passion our residents have for Sunninghill. This petition is a testament to their commitment to improving our community.”
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Gildenhuys extended thanks to the suburb manager, Tracy Kensey, for her ongoing work and effort in addressing the community’s concerns.
The petition will be formally submitted to the relevant City of Johannesburg entities, demanding urgent attention and action to address the critical service delivery issues facing Sunninghill.
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