Derelict property an eyesore in Irene
Residents noticed abandoned building being broken into and broken down during the duration of the current national lockdown.
An abandoned property in Irene, Centurion, has become an eyesore in the community after it was recently vandalised.
A concerned resident contacted Rekord after the roof of the building was reportedly stolen during the lockdown.
Lonsdale O’Donovan, from Irene, said the abandoned building in Jan Smuts Road had caught his attention following the recent vandalism and theft.
“This building can be used as a school or as a hospital,” O’Donovan told Rekord.
“Now the roof is gone, the window frames are broken out – and the whole place is in total tatters.”
O’Donovan further said the police visibility in the area had no effect as the criminals fled when they saw the blue lights patrolling the street.
The photos of the property showed the long grass, missing windows and a missing roof.
“This whole matter has just underlined that this area is not safe and also why we are having so much cable theft.”
Former ward 65 councillor Gert Visser confirmed he was aware of the situation at the property.
“A business named Taurus Co-Opt Livestock operated from the premises and seized to operate many years ago,” Visser said.
Visser said the owner of the property, who had abandoned the site, could not be found or traced.
“It is the responsibility of the owner to protect the property against ongoing theft and vandalism.
“The local community has been unable to come forward with the owner’s details to find a solution to the ongoing vandalism.
“The unlawful trespassing and vandalism of private property is totally unacceptable, even under these peculiar circumstances.”
Visser said any information to assist with contacting the owner will be much appreciated.
Lyttelton police spokesperson Dave Miller said while no case of theft at the said property has been opened so far, the rural coordinator would be informed and would inspect the site.
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