Bawinile Shabane – DA EThekwini Councillor
The Democratic Alliance in EThekwini is concerned about the derelict buildings which have been left abandoned by the municipality. These buildings if maintained have potential to provide valuable services to the communities surrounding them, instead they are becoming havens for criminal activity. The DA will be writing to City Manager Sipho Nzuza for immediate intervention on these buildings.
This follows our oversight last week at Sakhithemba, where an old YMCA building in Lower Illovo stands unattended, becoming a possible nest for criminal elements that could impact negatively on communities in the area.
The DA calls upon the EThekwini Municipality to prioritise the renovation and maintenance of municipal buildings, especially those with the potential to shelter the homeless. The call must also speak to renovations of buildings that can be used a skills sharing and youth development centres.
The DA applauds the recent demolition of 80 buildings in the inner city, however, we are disappointed with the inaction in residential areas where the effects are most felt. The poor management of municipal infrastructure has since become a norm. Ill maintenance of municipal buildings is not just a problem for the city, but one with adverse effects on residential property evaluations as they devaluate property in the surrounds.
Our residents deserve better. The DA remains the only party with a plan to bring about meaningful change to the lives all. The DA in EThekwini will heighten the call for better services and safer communities.