Abandoned Esther Park Scout hall raises safety concerns

Ward councillor Tracey Lourenco raised concerns about an abandoned building in Esther Park, commonly known as the Scout hall.
According to her, the hall has been vacant for three years, with almost no maintenance done during this time.

“The building has been here for well over 40 years and was once used as a boys’ Scout hall, for Girl Guides, church services and even as an event venue,” said Lourenco.

“Residents and I, as their councillor, have raised the issue many times with the municipality, but have received little response.”

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Lourenco said residents believe the CoE should take responsibility for the property’s upkeep, especially since the community does not use it, and residents continue to pay taxes and expect basic services.

She explained the property falls under the CoE’s Health Department, with maintenance the responsibility of the Real Estate Department.

“The building hasn’t been used in years, despite requests from groups like the MOTH clubs, churches and flower clubs to use it. A nearby owner has even made an offer to buy the property,” she added.

Residents have also highlighted the safety and health risks linked to the abandoned hall, including snakes, rats, structural hazards, fires, drug use, litter, overgrowth and vandalism.

Lourenco recalled receiving a complaint last year from a resident whose dog was bitten by a snake in their yard.

“Luckily, a neighbour’s daughter studying veterinary medicine helped save the dog’s life,” she said.

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Another resident, who asked to remain anonymous, said rats were a daily problem.

“One of my big dogs caught a rat the size of a domestic cat,” he said.

He explained that tenants had moved out of his property because of the smell, rodent infestation and general decay of the Scout hall.

“Our homes are also being damaged by damp caused by stagnant water and drainage problems from the property. Trees have grown into our yards, and we’ve had to hire chainsaws just to control the overgrowth,” he said.

The resident added that the CoE had not taken repeated reports seriously.

“Clr Lourenco has done her best, but it’s out of her hands. Our once beautiful suburb is in ruin because the CoE cannot maintain its assets.”

He said residents now face financial and safety impacts, including property damage, decreased property values, the loss of tenants and repair costs, such as R60 000 to rebuild a collapsed wall.

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“Vagrants and drug dealers use the hall, giving criminals easy access to our neighbourhood. We no longer feel safe,” he added.

City spokesperson Zweli Dlamini confirmed that the property belongs to the municipality, saying it was reserved in 2017 by the Social Development Division, with plans to convert it into a halfway house and skills development centre for the homeless in partnership with the Gauteng Department of Social Development. However, the project stalled due to a lack of funds.

“The EMPD has since expressed interest in renovating and using the property to store equipment. Two other community organisations have also submitted proposals to lease and renovate the building, which are under consideration,” said Dlamini.

He acknowledged residents’ concerns.

“We have received complaints about the property’s condition and non-maintenance. The city takes these seriously, and plans are being put in place to address them. The Parks Division was asked to assist with grass-cutting and cleaning.

“A service provider is ready to do the work, with budget availability the only outstanding matter,” he said.