Complaints about dilapidated gas station
The municipality also demanded additional logistical details, despite the fact that the site had previously functioned as a filling station.
VEREENIGING – A former gas station on Nile Drive in Three Rivers has become a source of frustration for residents who say it is an eyesore and a breeding ground for crime.
However, the property owner, Mohamed Latif, is blaming the Department of Mineral Resources and the local municipality for the delays.
The once-busy gas station is now overgrown with grass and rubbish. The structure also attracts vagrants, beggars, and street vendors.
Residents, including Johan and Theresa Rautenbach, have reported it to the municipality but claim nothing is being done about it.
Latif, who bought the property 22 months ago, stresses that he has no plans to let it fall into disrepair. He wants to transform it into a modern Engen gas station, but has run into bureaucratic obstacles.
“Engen and I have already invested millions in this project,” he said.
The first delay, according to Latif, was caused by the Department of Mineral Resources, which required him to reapply for his site and retail permits. “It took 17 months to get those two pieces of paper,” he said. The permits were issued in May 2024, after which Latif submitted plans to the Emfuleni Local Municipality in July. “We are still waiting for approval. We are stuck at the first of eight steps.”
Engen scheduled the construction, but had to prioritise other projects due to the delays.
The municipality also demanded additional logistical details, despite the fact that the site had previously functioned as a filling station.
Latif found a tenant – a hawker who sells chips and soft drinks – to prevent vandalism, as security costs up to R20 000 per month.
“If he leaves, the property will definitely be ransacked,” he said.
Despite the frustrations, Latif remains committed. “We have big plans, including a modern one-stop filling station and possibly a Nando’s drive-in restaurant. This project will create 22-25 jobs. But our hands are tied at the moment.”
Residents are hoping for a solution, while Latif continues to push for municipal approval so construction can begin.
Vaalweekblad has sent inquiries to Makhosonke Sangweni, head of communications at the Emfuleni Local Municipality, to enquire why the project is being delayed. We are still waiting for feedback, and will publish the municipality’s response when we receive it.
