Illegal occupation and safety concerns spark tension in Primrose community
Ward 92 councillor Kade Guerreiro is calling for urgent municipal intervention as the City of Ekurhuleni drafts a new by-law to address hijacked and derelict buildings.
The community of Primrose, particularly in Primrose East, is grappling with growing concerns over the illegal occupation of vacant properties, raising alarm over safety, health, and the long-term impact on property values.
Ward 92 councillor responds to community concerns
Ward 92 Clr Kade Guerreiro recently visited a property in Primrose East that had been illegally occupied following the death of the elderly homeowner six months ago.
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During the visit, he engaged with concerned neighbours who detailed a string of disturbing developments.
This includes uncertainty over ownership and sale of the property; burning of materials affecting air quality; and health hazards due to rat infestations.
There are conerns of the site turning into a dumping ground and informal recycling hub.
One resident commented that the smell is too much when they start to burn things. Others cited fears of rising crime and pests from the uncontrolled recycling activities.
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Children and safety risks
More disturbingly, Guerreiro highlighted the presence of three children living under hazardous conditions at the site. Following a visit by EMPD and city stakeholders, the Child Guardian Unit took the children into temporary safety care.
The site inspection revealed:
• Suspected stolen electricity cables
• Approximately 30 individuals occupying the property
• At least one person lacking proper documentation
Guerreiro has called on the City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) to intervene, clean up the property, and prioritise child safety. He described the house as a “deteriorated illegal recycling zone”, echoing similar issues in Sunnyridge and Germiston CBD, where illegal occupations have strained municipal resources and community patience.
Community response and fallout
Residents say the property has led some neighbours to sell their homes at a loss due to deteriorating living conditions.
“Complaints initially drew public attention, but concerns have faded without tangible resolution. A neighbour noted, “The community initially complained about the occupation, but the noise has since died down.”
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Municipal challenges and by-law in progress
When asked for comment, city spokesperson Zweli Dlamini stated that the CoE does not allocate resources for properties occupied by homeless individuals, instead referring these cases to the Gauteng Department of Social Development.
The city is, however, in the process of drafting a by-law on “bad buildings”, aiming to:
• Enforce building occupation regulations
• Define property owner responsibilities
• Enable municipal intervention for rehabilitation or demolition of hazardous buildings
This proposed law is expected to undergo inter-departmental review before submission to the city council Council for adoption.
Historical context
The CoE has long battled issues tied to illegal occupations and abandoned buildings.
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In 2021, it was embroiled in a legal dispute over a court order to purchase 16 privately-owned hijacked buildings. Past measures have included disconnecting illegal utilities and removing occupants, but lasting solutions remain elusive.
Conclusion
The situation in Primrose reflects broader urban challenges: managing vulnerable populations while upholding property rights and public health.
As residents demand immediate intervention and clarity, the pending “bad buildings” by-law could provide a critical tool—if backed by enforcement and community engagement.
