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The DA in Johannesburg is deeply troubled by the lax enforcement of land use rights in the granting of liquor licenses to taverns and other outlets situated in residential areas.

We have witnessed an alarming increase in the number of such establishments, often located in close proximity to schools and places of worship, across our city. Disturbingly, it appears that the City of Johannesburg's Development Planning Department, vital to the matter of land use, is often not consulted as part of the liquor license approval process.

The Municipal Council has a duty to ensure that license applicants possess the requisite land use rights for their operations. In doing so, we safeguard our community's interests and maintain the integrity of our residential areas.

During my tenure as the Member of the Mayoral Committee for Development Planning, I corresponded with the Gauteng Liquor Board, seeking clarification on the seeming disregard for land use rights in the issuance of liquor licenses. Despite assurances of a response, no satisfactory answer was ever forthcoming. And this remains the shocking position today with the ANC-EFF-PA doomsday coalition in power.

Let it be unequivocally clear: no liquor outlet can legally operate without obtaining the appropriate land use rights, which typically involves feedback from the affected community.

Regrettably, we continue to witness the flagrant violation of this requirement. Children in uniform are often seen purchasing alcohol from these outlets due to their unsettling proximity to schools.

It is particularly concerning to note instances where premises with high court injunctions against illegal land use and illicit construction have still managed to obtain liquor licenses. Despite numerous complaints from neighbours and our own concerted efforts to enforce the law – including shutting down these establishments in line with court orders – these businesses persist in flouting regulations.

Today, I have once again, as Shadow MMC, contacted the Gauteng Liquor Board, requesting an investigation into certain liquor outlets operating near schools and without the necessary land use rights.

The DA demands of the Gauteng Liquor Board to adhere to due process: consult with the City's land use management authorities to ensure all licensees meet the required regulations. Moreover, we urge the Board to halt the issuance of liquor licenses to establishments within 500 meters of schools and places of worship.

The rule of law isn’t about some abstract set of rules – it’s about keeping our communities safe. We must uphold the rule of law and protect our communities. We owe it to the residents of Johannesburg to ensure responsible business practices and maintain the sanctity of our residential areas.

Issued by Cllr Belinda Echeozonjoku - DA Johannesburg Shadow MMC for Development Planning