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The Department of Development Planning’s Single Law Enforcement Unit carried out the demolition of 33 unoccupied structures that were illegally constructed at Santa Building, situated next to Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital.

This followed a complaint received from the hospital CEO, Dr Nkele Lesia, highlighting the continuous overflow of sewerage to their maternity ward.

The City of Johannesburg, through the Regional Director’s Office, subsequently conducted a site inspection with all relevant department and municipal entities, wherein several illegal building activities taking place on the property were identified.

Accordingly, a contravention notice was issued to the Joburg Property Company, the owners, to address the illegal constructions – some of which had been erected over sewer lines and other Council services.

Other challenges identified on site included overcrowding, illegal water connection, illegal electricity connection and illegal business mechanics, spaza shop, etc.

The City puts it on record that none of the demolished structures were occupied and that no evictions were carried out during the law enforcement operation.

Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Development Planning, Cllr Thapelo Amad, has appealed to residents to adhere to all national building regulations and other City by-laws.

“The contravention of City by-laws, particularly in the built environment, contribute to the significant derelict of buildings and the general deterioration we have witnessed across Johannesburg over the years.

“Illegal building activity and illegal land uses not only affect property owners around your area; they have a significant effect on the City’s infrastructure,” MMC Amad said.

Residents should note that all illegal buildings and extensions that are constructed without approved building plans will be served with notices of non-compliance.

“The need for compliance is high up on the Department’s list of priorities, as it ensures the safety of people who immediately occupy these buildings, which cannot be ignored under any circumstances,” added MMC Amad.

The Department of Development Planning encourages residents to report suspected contraventions, including: zoning, illegal land use, additions, alterations, building developments, building signage and outdoor advertising to the Planning Law Enforcement Unit on complaintsple@joburg.org.za.

Furthermore, illegal buildings and illegal land uses can be reported to local regional officers in all seven regions (A-G).

Issued by The City of Johannesburg