Good day residents.
The purpose of this petition is to advocate for the demolition of the two derelict houses owned by the Department of Public Works along Waterloo Green, which have been illegally occupied and have become a haven for criminal activities. This is posing a significant risk to the residents in the
surrounding areas, in addition to the learners and staff of the surrounding schools.

The Wynberg Campus of Schools has been in negotiation with the Department of Public Works since 2020 to lease this land for the joint benefit of our schools and our 3500+ learners. Below are the links
to articles referring to these problem properties and the focus I have placed on them:

Property woes in Wynberg drag on
Councillor challenges public works ministry over neglected land in Wynberg-Constantia areas
MP Sello Seithlolo's Budget Speech to the DWPI Portfolio Committee

The purpose of this petition is to advocate for the demolition of the two derelict houses owned by the Department of Public Works along Waterloo Green, Wynberg (ERF 66347), which have been illegally occupied and have become a haven for criminal activities, posing a significant security risk to the residents in the surrounding areas. As concerned members of the community, we have witnessed firsthand the detrimental effects these abandoned properties have on the overall safety, well-being, and
quality of life for the residents.

The presence of criminal elements, including drug users, prostitutes, and individuals engaged in home invasions, has created an environment of fear and vulnerability. lt is imperative that we take swift action to address these issues and restore a sense of security to the Wynberg community.

The Wynberg Campus of Schools surrounding the property have on at least two occasions attempted to tender to lease the property. The schools namely, Wynberg Girls HS, Wynberg Girls JS, Wynberg Boys HS and Wynberg Boys JS are all willing to lease the property for use for the benefit of more than 3500 students. The residents request that this process is revisited and that the option to lease be made available once more.

The specific concerns we raise in this petition are as follows:

Criminal Activities: The derelict houses in question have become a hub for criminal activities, with drug use, prostitution, and home invasion being the most prevalent. This not only endangers the lives of the residents but also tarnishes the reputation of our community.

Security Risks: The criminal elements using these properties pose a significant security risk to the surrounding residents. Frequent incidents of theft, vandalism, and violence have been reported, causing great distress and fear among law-abiding citizens.

Neglected Properties: The Department of Public Works owns these derelict houses, which have been left in a state of disrepair and neglect. Their deteriorating conditions attract criminal elements and contribute to the overall decline of the neighbourhood.

lt is therefore necessary for the demolition of the two houses, refurbishment of the third house, secure fencing of the whole property, and ongoing maintenance and security of the entire area until such time that it is transferred into private hands through purchase or leasing.