Ekurhuleni Metro Admits Construction Is Illegal

After sustained pressure from the Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus), the Ekurhuleni Metro’s Building Control Department finally admitted that the construction of units on a property in Ravenklip, Boksburg, is illegal.

The Freedom Front Plus received complaints from residents about the matter on 14 June, whereafter the party formally requested the Metro to confirm whether the owner is in possession of approved building plans.

On 30 June, the Metro issued an enforcement notice to the owner and gave him until 30 August to submit or apply for building plans. An inspection was also carried out and the owner was instructed to stop all construction.

No building plans or application were received by the deadline and the matter has been referred to the Metro’s Legal Department.

The Freedom Front Plus kept receiving complaints from residents, stating that the owner is proceeding with construction following the notice.

The National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act clearly stipulate that no one may undertake construction without the required approved building plans.

The Freedom Front Plus will not let the matter rest.

The party will:

• formally follow up on the matter with the Legal Department to determine when the file was handed over and what steps will be taken;
• request the Metro in writing to confirm whether construction continued after the notice was issued, and whether further inspections took place;
• establish whether any further enforcement measures have already been instituted or are in the pipeline;
• monitor the matter until the Metro confirms that the relevant legislation has been complied with; and
• ensure that residents receive feedback on the outcome.

In the Freedom Front Plus’s view, residents should not have to wait months for the Metro to act. Public confidence in the Building Control Department has to be restored, and silence will not achieve that.

The party will keep a close eye on the matter until there is clarity on the legal process, the outcome as well as the enforcement of and compliance with the law.

Freedom Front Plus Crime Prevention: The party emphasizes the need for effective crime prevention strategies.

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