THERE is some light at the end of the tunnel for residents of Doreen Crescent – an abandoned house, which was a haven for snakes and cockroaches, has finally been cleaned up.  Last month, Northglen News spoke to André Brand, who said he’d killed thousands of cockroaches and had seen a number of snakes crawl out of the overgrown bushes into his yard, which is next to the abandoned building.

Durban North councillor, Shaun Ryley, praised the swift action of the owner and the health department, who were instrumental in getting the property cleaned up.

“The resolution for residents of Doreen Crescent is testament to the dedication of the city’s health officials, like Dave Bradshaw. After some investigation, we found the property was part of a deceased estate. The health department was able to track down the owner and there has been a remarkable improvement.

“The grass, which was waist-high, has been cut and all the rubbish and rubble clogging the main entrance to the house have been cleared away. It’s rare to find instances where swift action has taken place and it’s a positive start for the home. I’d also like to commend the owner of the home for his help in making reaching an amicable solution with the next door neighbour,” he said.

Last year, the city proposed the new ‘problem buildings by-laws’, which target abandoned, vacant, invaded and neglected properties by imposing penalties, be it a fine and/or eviction for errant home owners.

In some instances the municipality would have the authority to ‘remedy’ the contravention and recover the costs from the owner.