Abandoned property in Sunnyridge becomes an eyesore to locals
“Neighbours are concerned about the rodents, the safety of the occupant and the value of their properties.”
Sunnyridge residents urge authorities to address the situation at a long-abandoned property on Little Place Street, where a homeless individual has lived for years, disrupting the neighbourhood.
The property, reportedly well-furnished before the 2010 FIFA World Cup, has since been stripped of its contents by vandals and thieves.
Ward 92 Clr Kade Guerreiro described the house as a deteriorated illegal recycling zone.
“The yard is full of cardboard boxes and recycling bags, raising concerns about property values, safety and pests,” he said.
Residents want the council to relocate the occupant and clean up the property.
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Guerreiro added that the city must investigate the property’s ownership – does it belong to a bank or an individual? – and start the property reclaiming process for a potential auction.
He said that while the current occupant allowed officials onto the property, the Squatters Act complicates the situation. It protects unauthorised occupants from being forcibly removed without a court order.
“The neighbours have no way to contact the former owners. Homeowners informing their neighbours if they are travelling or moving abroad is crucial to ensure open communication channels,” Guerreiro advised.
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The CoEhuleni responded to enquiries by saying no resources are allocated to properties occupied by homeless individuals.
City spokesperson Zweli Dlamini explained that the Gauteng Department of Social Development and the homeless forums handle homelessness-related issues.
More information on identifying the previous owners was unavailable at the time of publication.
