The illegal and most intolerable building of a hostel destined for students or other persons within the confined spaces of the basement of 185 Arkansas Road has been pushed through.

A two by three metre room is akin to a prison cell. This being coupled with the fact that it is located three metres below street level is outrageous.

As concerned residents of Berario, we all need to stand NOW in SOLIDARITY with, and as part of, the Berario Action Group (B.A.G.)  as it moves to fight this through the high court (very soon).

It is therefore MOST URGENT & VITAL that WE as responsible and caring residents  DEMONSTRATE to all parties concerned that we are UNITED in our objections and that we all STAND in solidarity with Lee Crossingham and B.A.G.

We PROMISE as responsible residents to remain vigilant that Berario is developed in harmony with the National Building Regulations and Standards,  the City of Johannesburg bylaws and town planning scheme, as well as the proper and legal processes and procedures prescribed by the City of Joburg. Decent living standards must be upheld to the betterment of  everyone in our community. The rights of Berario’s residents must be recognised and respected.