Illegal developments in Maitland has caught the attention of the City of Cape Town, which has referred illegal building bylaw transgressions for criminal prosecution.
This was prior to the placard protest that Maitland Ratepayers and Residents Association held outside a new multi-story development on Janssens Road last week. The association wants to protect the community's interest, residential character, and historical heritage, said chairperson Faiek Fredericks.
He said there were illegal building activities and zoning violations, coupled with a lack of enforcement and accountability. City of Cape Town’s spokesperson, Luthando Tyhalibongo, said they were aware of the association's concerns.
“A notice was served to the owner on February 21, 2025, and was officially signed on March 3, 2025. Work was paused for a few days and then resumed, despite the notice, with the installation of windows being the only activity carried out. No plans have been submitted for the construction at 1 Janssens Road. A plan for 3 Janssens Road was submitted, but it has not been approved. The notice served on February 21 has been referred for criminal prosecution,” Tyhalibongo said.
Fredericks said the association applauds the City's decision to pursue legal action in this case. He urged the authorities to take swift and decisive action, including the demolition of the illegal structure and the prosecution of the owner in accordance with the relevant laws and regulations.
“From our investigations we have found that the developer has seven different properties in Cape Town and he could have the same modus operandi elsewhere. He is creating this slumlord type of dwellings. There must be more people involved in this and we hope the courts get to the bottom of it,” he said.
Fredericks said the continued neglect of these issues will not only deteriorate Maitland's living conditions. Fredericks handed a memorandum to the city with key concerns and recommendations regarding community safety, enforcement of building by-laws, and cooperative efforts between law enforcement, security companies, and community safety structures within sub-council 3.
Fredericks still believes that the failure to stop work orders and enforce regulations undermines the integrity of city planning. Fredericks said that the association was concerned about the capabilities of the existing sewer infrastructure.
“The uncontrolled densification of properties without proper infrastructure upgrades will exacerbate sanitation issues, which were previously discussed with city officials. The association suggested that additional building inspectors be employed to improve oversight,” he said.
Cape Town Ward 56 councillor Cheslyn Steenberg said the current lawlessness of developers in Maitland calls for great concern. Steenberg also challenged the City to also investigate a development in Norfolk Street, adjacent to the Maitland Day Hospital.
“The absolute disregard for the residents in that street is unbelievable. The City thinks nothing of the people of Maitland and that is a fact - with all these developers flocking to Maitland - the City is not looking at infrastructure that needs upgrading yet it wants to encourage and reward development, that kite is not going to fly it should be people first and not money first,” Steenberg said.