THE rapid spread of shack dwellings on Transnet-owned land on The Bluff, some now encroaching on residential properties, has prompted residents to pursue the legal route.

The frustrated group of residents has appointed attorney Allison Schoeman to represent them at the Durban High Court in a bid to compel Transnet to remove shack dwellers from the site.

The most affected areas are:

• Benjamin Road
• Station Road
• Peacehaven Place
• Hartlepool Road.

The land has reportedly been occupied by informal settlers over the past several years, raising concerns among nearby residents about safety, sanitation, and declining property values.

In a recent meeting held with the residents of Marlborough Park on September 29, repeated calls for intervention by Transnet and local authorities have gone unanswered.

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The residents now hope the court will order Transnet to act against the illegal occupation.

Schoeman said, “We are facing a land invasion that cannot be ignored. History has already shown us the consequences of silence. Cato Manor was once overlooked, it became a flashpoint for violence, forced removals, and years of instability. What began as a small, informal settlement in Phola Park quickly grew into a sprawling, unmanageable community.

“If we fail to act now, this situation could escalate to something far worse, potentially 10 times more severe than Phola Park. This illegal settlement risks becoming a permanent fixture, and when that happens, property values across the area will plummet.

“The Bluff as a whole is at risk. Just because the threat isn’t at your doorstep today doesn’t mean you’re safe tomorrow. Ignoring it now only invites greater problems later. With vegetation destroyed, the dune is destabilised, placing more than 30 homes directly at risk of collapse. Families now live with constant fear for their safety,” she added.

Schoeman has committed to represent the Bluff Ratepayers and Residents Association (BRRA) and affected homeowners.

Schoeman is expected to:

• Engage with Transnet’s legal representatives.
• File papers in the High Court to compel action.
• Call on Transnet to secure its land.
• Call on eThekwini Municipality to provide alternative accommodation where necessary.

The court application will seek an order to halt the unlawful occupation and protect The Bluff residents from further risks relating to collapse, safety, sanitation, and infrastructure.

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The community has also embarked on a drive to raise funds to assist the litigation process.

Funds will cover attorney and advocate fees, filing expenses, and essential disbursements. Without financial support, legal action cannot proceed. A backabuddy account has been created where residents can deposit the money.

Attempts to get a comment from Transnet were unsuccessful at the time of publishing.

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