Derelict property on 10th Avenue Parktown North raises safety concerns
Suspicious movement and activities at a dilapidated property on 10th Avenue in Parktown North leave residents uneasy.
An alleged hijacked property with overgrown grass and makeshift material used as a gate and fence remains a security concern and an eyesore in 10th Avenue in Parktown North.
In a recent Parkview CPF public meeting, residents said that the property had been a longstanding matter at previous meetings, but nothing had been done to address the situation.
A journalist met with a resident and Ward 117 councillor Tim Truluck on July 30 to probe the matter further.
Read more: Tackling hijacked buildings and illegal foreigners
The resident, who did not want to be named for safety reasons, said she’s witnessed the property deteriorate over time.
“I have lived in the suburb for over 10 years, and the condition of the property has worsened. We saw JMPD, SAPS and COJ authorities in March this year conduct an operation, but the situation of the property remains the same.”
The resident listed some of the alleged crimes and by-law infringements that have happened and continue to happen, which include attempted murder, stabbing, hawking, garden refuse dumping, and sale of drugs.
City of Johannesburg spokesperson, Nthatis Modingoane, confirmed that the city was aware of the derelict property.
“Group Forensic and Investigation Services is currently investigating the matter. The investigation entails finding out who the owner is and engaging them on the future development plans for the property. Once all this work has been concluded, we will be in a better position to provide information.”
Also read: The hijacked property in Highlands North.
Parktown North Residents Association representative, Lee Young, noted that the association remained deeply concerned about the ongoing situation at the property.
“The property was extensively damaged by a fire several years ago and was subsequently declared structurally unsafe by the City of Johannesburg. It has become an illegal dumping site, while various makeshift structures and screening materials erected by the occupants have further degraded the appearance of the property and negatively impacted the surrounding neighbourhood.”
Young added that the concerns raised by the association have been reported to the relevant municipal authorities for investigation and appropriate action.
Truluck concluded by saying the key for properties not to be hijacked or illegally occupied was for secure fencing to be erected and the property to be kept under surveillance.
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