Frustrations are growing in Fairland over an informal taxi holding area that has expanded onto open public land near residential properties, with residents raising concerns over littering, public urination, illegal parking and safety.

The issue follows the relocation of taxis from the informal Smit Street rank, with drivers now gathering in an open veld at the corner of 1st Avenue and Smit Street, as well as outside the Moth Cottlesloe retirement home. Concerns around the site were recently raised during community discussions.

Read more: 2 injured due to taxi brake failure on Marian Road in Craighall Park

Beagle Watch managing director Andre Aiton said the problem had escalated significantly in recent months. “In the new location, as of late, it used to be a few Uber vehicles, but now it is out of control with taxis.”

According to Aiton, residents and nearby businesses have complained about litter being left behind, as well as taxi operators urinating in public areas. He added that the growing activity has left many residents increasingly concerned about their safety.

For a long-term solution, he recommended relocating the taxi activity to a more suitable commercial area where proper facilities and infrastructure could be provided.

Also read: Taxis associations clash over routes

JMPD spokesperson, Superintendent Xolani Fihla, confirmed that the issue is a long-standing and recurring problem within Fairland. According to Fihla, previous enforcement operations successfully removed taxis parking illegally in Fairland, but drivers subsequently shifted to nearby public spaces to avoid enforcement zones.

Regarding the latest complaints, Fihla confirmed that taxis parked illegally on pavements were fined on the same day that photographs documenting the issue were taken. Fihla confirmed that they continue to monitor the spot to ensure that pavements remain accessible to pedestrians.

He noted that drivers at this location are indeed violating traffic and public nuisance regulations. “While JMPD is committed to consistent enforcement, these actions are subject to the availability of resources and the need to balance various public safety prioritities across the metro.”

He also noted that although litter was not visible in the latest evidence submitted to JMPD, public open space and sanitation by-laws remain applicable should waste-related violations occur. For ongoing violations or immediate obstructions in Fairland, Fihla advised residents to report them using the emergency reporting hotline: 011 375 5911

Residents have been encouraged to continue reporting incidents directly to JMPD to assist with tracking recurring violations and allocating enforcement resources.

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