City says Birchleigh Library repairs could resume this month

Following the publication of a Kempton Express report on the deteriorating condition of the Birchleigh Library auditorium in the July 23 edition, the City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) has responded to concerns.

The original report highlighted ongoing water leaks and the worsening condition of the auditorium, with residents warning that the issues are affecting the safety and usability of the facility.

CoE spokesperson Zweli Dlamini said the city expects repairs to resume once the necessary approvals have been finalised.

ALSO READ: Residents call for urgent repairs at Birchleigh Library

“We estimate that works could resume as soon as August 2026,” said Dlamini.

The Kempton Express previously reported that the problems, which residents say also affect the Wynand Marais Community Hall and Birchleigh Clinic, have been raised repeatedly by community members, staff and through ward committee structures for more than a year.

Despite these concerns being escalated to the relevant municipal departments, residents claim they have received limited feedback and seen little progress.

Friends of the Kempton Park Libraries chairperson Jeanette Gunningham said she first noticed the problems in January 2025 and formally reported them on March 19, 2025.

“All groups using this facility are affected, and clearly maintenance needs to be done. The roof is leaking, and there are geyser problems. The walls and ceilings need repair,” said Gunningham.

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Ward 15 Clr Amanda Davison said water continues to collect around the library, suggesting possible problems with the pipes, drainage system or roof.

She said the municipality has not yet confirmed the source of the leaks or provided a timeline for repairs.

According to Davison, the auditorium, which is used for community meetings and programmes, is becoming increasingly difficult to use because of damp conditions and ongoing maintenance concerns.

“Following multiple site visits, clear signs of water damage and poor maintenance remain evident. Reports submitted to Council have not resulted in meaningful action, and there is no indication that repairs have been prioritised.

“While delays may be linked to slow response times, budget constraints and poor coordination, these cannot justify the continued neglect of essential community infrastructure.

“I will continue to escalate this matter, demand clear timelines and ensure accountability. Residents will be kept informed as we push for urgent intervention.

ALSO READ: Residents unite to clean up Birchleigh Library

“The continued neglect of the Birchleigh Library is unacceptable. The city must act now to repair the leaks, restore the facility and ensure it is safe for community use,” she said.

Ward 15 committee member for social housing and rental affairs, Faith Ngako, said concerns about the facility have been reported to the city on several occasions.

The city’s response follows a media enquiry submitted by the Kempton Express on July 14.