DOCCRA launches a petition calling on KwaDukuza Municipality (KDM) to enforce by-laws in the informal settlement in the western area of Ballito.
Dolphin Coast, KZN — 04 October 2024
DOCRRA has been approached by numerous residents and ratepayers on the Dolphin Coast regarding the growing illegal, informal settlement located in the western area of Ballito, close to Umhlali Country Club, and near to several established rate-paying residential communities and the soon-to-be completed new power substation.
While we empathise with and understand the plight of many of the people living there, public health and safety violations need to be addressed, for the good of all affected community members, including those living within the settlement.
“By-laws are made to protect the public from nuisance; to protect, promote and maintain public health and safety; and to prevent offensive behaviour in public places.”
The goal of DOCRRA’s petition is the enforcement of bylaws and order only.
While KDM accepts the benefits of increased rates revenue from one of the fastest growing municipalities in the country, they have failed to address the critical lack of adequate housing and infrastructure to handle the influx of new residents – rate-paying and informal – in this municipality for years. Inadequate town planning has resulted in the suffering of many communities. This failure has led to the unfortunate situation that our community is now facing , both ratepayers and informal settlers.
However, the lack of housing doesn’t and shouldn’t negate the rule of law, because these laws are in place to protect and serve the community at large.
Regardless of whether there is an informal settlement or a rate-paying community, by-laws should be enforced, and where KDM is failing to provide the required infrastructure and services to make it possible to adhere to those laws, they need to make the changes to correct that and take control of the situation.
Peace disturbance; pollution; illegal firing of weapons; crime spikes; illegal, unsafe water and electricity connections and unlicensed business operations, are among the many complaints received.
Illegal activities in the informal settlement are in contravention of some of the following bylaws, among others:
-Chapter 21, Noise Control, Section 2, Clause c: Discontinuation of Noise Disturbances
-Chapter 21, Noise Control, Sections 4 and 5: Prohibition of Disturbing Noise
-Chapter 22, Nuisance, Section 2: Disturbance of the Peace
-Chapter 22, Nuisance, Section 5, Clause 1: Illegal Discharge of Firearms
-Chapter 22, Nuisance, Section 26: Deposit of Human Excrement and Urine
-Chapter 26, Removal of Refuse, Sections 2 and 3: Disposal of Refuse
-Chapter 28, Street Trading, Section 3: Restrictions on Street Trading
Furthermore, incident reports from robberies, break-ins and other crimes have been made with both SAPS and private security firms. Copies of these reports can be made available upon request.
DOCRRA Chairman, Deon Viljoen states, “DOCRRA’s mission is to protect and enhance the Dolphin Coast’s quality of life and property values through effective bylaw enforcement.”
KDM must take decisive action to address the critical lack of infrastructure and housing for qualifying citizens in this rapidly developing area. Rates and taxes paid by residents and ratepayers within the KwaDukuza Municipality, if administered correctly, should be sufficient for implementing these services, and preventing situations like this from arising in the first place.
As the body representing lawful residents and ratepayers of the Dolphin Coast, DOCRRA is assisting the community in urging KDM to take control of this situation in a manner that benefits all.
We would like to extend an invitation for meaningful and constructive dialogue to KwaDukuza Municipality, Abahlali baseMjondolo, and any individuals or organisations with a vested interest in resolving this issue.
While DOCRRA appreciates the passion displayed by many regarding this petition, it is important to note that DOCRRA is a non-political, non-racial, non-religious civil society organisation, dedicated to the efficient development of the Dolphin Coast, together with the promotion and protection of all ratepayers and residents’ interests, especially the delivery of satisfactory municipal services in return for rates paid.
Ends.
For media inquiries:
Stephanie Walker, Executive Officer, DOCRRA
064 737 2269
stephanie@docrra.co.za
https://docrra.co.za/enough-is-enough-sign-our-petition-to-stop-the-lawlessness-in-ballito/
SIGN THE PETITION NOW to make your voice heard!
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