A HOUSING project, with an initial budget of R45 million meant to uplift the Wentworth community has become of great concern as it has become an eyesore and a potential hazard.

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Launched during the tenure of former president Thabo Mbeki, the project aimed to provide safe and residential flats for thousands of residents. The community voiced serious grievances about the deteriorating conditions of their homes. One of the most alarming issues raised was the use of substandard materials in the construction of the flats.

“The walls are made of rhino boards and they never used bricks and cement. We moved into these flats 20 years ago and we have noticed cracks in the walls,” said a resident who asked to remain anonymous.

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The flats, at the corner of Lansdowne and Silvertree roads, were a joint venture housing project of eThekwini Municipality and KZN Human Settlements Department. The sentiment was shared by several others who fear that the structural integrity of their homes is compromised, potentially leading to catastrophic consequences.

Another resident, Fildah Smith, said her life was better before they were moved to the new flats. “They (municipality) moved us to these matchboxes. Each unit has two rooms, a kitchen, and a lounge,” said Smith.

Another resident, Joseph Robinson, said the tiles on the floors in some houses are popping up due to dampness and mould caused by water coming from leaking pipes.

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The project, once touted as a national success story, aimed at improving the quality of life in Wentworth, has now become a stark reminder of unfulfilled promises and failed infrastructure. Calls for urgent intervention and comprehensive assessments of the buildings have intensified.

“The government must demolish these flats and start building new ones with proper building materials,” Smith added.

Efforts to reach officials for comment were unsuccessful at the time of going to print. Community leaders have vowed to escalate their demands for immediate action to address the pressing issues affecting the safety and well-being of their constituents. Ward 68 councillor, Aubrey Snyman, said complaints were escalated to the eThekwini Municipality.

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