GALLERY: Residents cry foul
WINDSOR WEST – A rowdy shebeen at the Dukes Lodge frustrates residents of Sharon Place which is adjacent to the lodge.
Residents staying adjacent to the Dukes Lodge Complex in Dukes Avenue and Beyers Naudé Drive complained they were fed up with the unscrupulous activities taking place in the apartment.
They had to endure unbearable noise caused allegedly by people from the ‘shebeen’, which operates throughout the night from one of the garages in the complex.
Residents of Sharon Place, next to the complex claimed they have been intimidated, bullied and forced to be tolerant by people who are using the garages to conduct their businesses at the Dukes Lodge.
“A shebeen operates throughout the day until late at night with music blaring from the owner’s car, while he drinks with his customers – including taxis and other drivers,” said Ursula Wiese.
She said the situation had escalated and was unbearable.
“Since 2004, we have had enough of this as it is totally unacceptable,” said Wiese, one of the residents.
She explained, “The property not being fenced in, allowed the garages to become a thriving business for tenants as storage facilities.”
She said drums of flammable liquid – either of petrol, diesel and paraffin – were stored in these garages.
“We are woken up by strange noises from goods being constantly delivered to the complex and we don’t even open our front door as the stench of urine clouds the air,” she added.
Wiese also indicated that Dukes Avenue was made inaccessible by many vehicles scattered all over the place.
Ward 98 councillor Laurette Van Zijl confirmed she was aware of the dire problem. She complained that she addressed the problem to the council and nothing was done. “I have tried to get hold of the owner and nothing is done yet,” she said.
JMPD spokesperson Chief Superintendent Wayne Minnaar explained that the property was private and if residents had a problem they should call Joburg Connect Radio on 011 375 5911.
“Residents must be specific where the noise is coming from,” he said.
The owner of the property was not immediately available for the comment.
Details: Laurette Van Zijl 011 789 2247.
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