Ward 104 Clr Tracey Lourenco is calling for urgent intervention from the City of Ekurhuleni following numerous complaints from residents regarding an illegal taxi mechanical workshop operating on an open space in Parklands Drive.

According to Lourenco, the site is being used as a taxi repair workshop, with numerous taxis parked on the property day and night.

In addition to the alleged unauthorised business activity, the area has reportedly become a dumping ground, allegedly used by those working on the vehicles.

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“The result is an unsightly and increasingly unhygienic environment that negatively impacts the surrounding community,” said Lourenco.

She expressed concern about the environmental impact of the operation, particularly the possibility of used motor oil seeping directly into the ground.

“This poses a significant environmental risk, especially considering that Kempton Park is known for its high water tables.

“Residents fear that continued contamination could affect groundwater resources and lead to long-term environmental consequences,” she said.

Lourenco said she has escalated the matter to various city departments, including the EMPD, and has formally requested the removal of the alleged illegal operation.

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“To date, only the Health Department and Waste Management Department have responded. Health officials indicated that they are attending to the matter, while Waste Management continues to remove illegally dumped waste from the site,” she said.

Lourenco said that the property is jointly owned by the City of Ekurhuleni and the adjacent shopping centre.

Discussions have been held with the shopping centre manager, who confirmed there are future development plans for the property.

However, Lourenco believes the relevant city departments should enforce existing bylaws and prevent the continued unlawful use of the land until those plans are implemented.

“Our town is becoming increasingly affected by illegal dumping and unlawful land use. Residents deserve clean, safe and well-managed public spaces,” she said.

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“We therefore call on the EMPD, Transport Department and Illegal Land Use Department to take immediate enforcement action, shut down this illegal workshop and restore order to the area. Residents have raised their concerns. It is now time for action.”

Kempton Express sent an inquiry to the City of Ekurhuleni on June 18, requesting comment by June 22.

The city confirmed that the inquiry had been referred to the EMPD for comment. At the time of going to print, no response had been received.