Dilapidated houses in Scottburgh are an eye-sore

The staff member reportedly said that the houses were to be 'filled with concrete'. On another occasion, it was said that the houses would be demolished.

January 23, 2019

Mid South Coast Mail 1 minute read

RESIDENTS in Erskine Street, Scottburgh are still fuming that nothing has been done regarding the three dilapidated houses owned by the provincial Department of Public Works.

ALSO READ : Derelict houses in Scottburgh remain a concern

As previously reported, the houses have become a death trap as a result of the structural decay. A brief inspection at the three houses on Monday this week revealed that a security guard, as well as two additional guards who rotate shifts, had been employed. KMP Security guard, Dumisani Cele says that members of the Department of Public Works had last visited the site about a month ago.

Residents living nearby had approached a staff member from the Department of Public Works voicing their concerns.

The staff member reportedly said that the houses were to be ‘filled with concrete’. On another occasion, it was said that the houses would be demolished.

Previously, the houses had become a safe haven for drug users and prostitutes with residents reporting the matter to authorities on multiple occasions.

Vandals were also raiding the properties for fixtures and fittings.

Since the employment of on-site security, reports by concerned residents have decreased, however, the houses remain an eye-sore and impact heavily on local property values. The houses were previously used to house police officials.