Residents of Bloubergstrand are breathing a sigh of relief as the problem plot at 3 Tritonia Road has been cleared.
Tabletalk had reported concerns about alleged drug sales and prostitution at the open plot, which was bought by a private developer. It was fenced off but had been occupied with squatters ("Residents raise alarm over problem property", Tabletalk, March 19).
Private contract workers cleaning the plot at Tritonia Road in Bloubergrant. PICTURE: BHEKI RADEBE
Image: BHEKI RADEBE
“I am feeling relieved, hopeful, happy, safer, and proud of the neighbourhood participation and working together as a community of Tritonia road to fight this problem we had," said one of the neighbours who wanted to remain anonymous.
He said it has been a nightmare to live there as the squatters were urinating and defecating near the concrete wall, creating a foul smell.
“We were not able to use our own backyards, we were unable to host outdoor family functions. There were major health concerns in our neighbourhood as rats were spotted on this property. There were concerns about diseases breaking out as used toilet paper was blown by the wind, as well as flies across the complex that were attracted by the human waste."
He said he hopes the property owner will speed up the process of building on the open land, as the sand from the site blows inside their homes.
City's Solid Waste Management workers picking up rubbish left on the pavement at 3 Tritonia Road.
Image: Bheki Radebe
Another neighbour said: "For over a year, the community’s pleas for intervention fell on deaf ears. The local SAPS appeared indifferent, showing little concern even as the notorious drug dealer, known as the Skateboard Pusher, frequented the site. Meanwhile, our local politicians, despite repeated appeals, dragged their feet and failed to act. Their ineffectiveness and lack of urgency left residents feeling abandoned and vulnerable."
Ward 107 Councilor Jonathan Mills said: "I'm very pleased that we are finally getting somewhere with this site. The neighbours and residents who have had to put up with this terrible situation deserve huge praise for their constant efforts in keeping this item on the agenda of all the role players."
Landowner Mohammadli Amouhadi said he was waiting for approval to start building a four-storey block with 20 apartments.