Richards Bay squatter mansion in the suburbs

THE shell of what could be a dream executive house, is becoming a bone of contention for disgruntled neighbours in Meerensee.

They say their properties are being devalued because the house is occupied by squatters.

The owner, said to be a doctor, has given an unemployed family permission to live in the unfinished mansion, and while the neighbours have dropped off food parcels, clothes and even arranged an employment opportunity for one of the men, they say the situation is unhygienic, unsafe and presents a breach in security.

One of the occupants are apparently in jail for alleged theft and the employment opportunity was reportedly not enthusiastically pursued.

The inhabitants, including an elderly woman, keep a large dog on a running leash, which has been inspected an approved by the SPCA.

The society regularly checks on the animal and provides health care and food when needed.

Neigbours say they feel sorry for the occupants, but they also have to protects their own interests and consider the precedent it sets.

The garden is non-existent, littered with building rubble and washing can be seen hanging inside the structure.

The municipality’s Building Inspector, Bongi Ngema, conducted an inspection and confirmed through Communication’s Manager Mdu Ncalane that the city was aware of the situation, but the premises met the requirements for an occupation certificate and their hands were tied as long as no municipality bylaws were being breached.

‘We have inspected the premises and there is running water, a working toilet and the rates and taxes of the property is paid up.

‘We have sent notices to the owner because we are opposed to people living there. There are no windows and doors and they are exposed to the elements, especially rain and cold. Where do they cook and sleep?’

Residents say the occupants often beg on the street and they have been seen dumping rubbish in the dunes.

‘We understand that the municipality can only act according to their bylaws, but homeowners who take pride in their properties don’t want to put up with this,’ said one resident.

‘We have a high rate of break-ins in Meerensee and there are constant instances of petty thefts of household goods.

‘The house has been standing incomplete for years now. The owner is not being considerate towards his neighbours.