Key Points
- Cape Town referred illegal building in Maitland for criminal prosecution.
- Residents protested over poor enforcement and infrastructure strain.
- City officials promised legal action and future oversight improvements.
The City of Cape Town has taken legal steps against the owner of an illegal building in Maitland. Officials referred the case for criminal prosecution after the developer ignored a formal stop-work notice.
This action comes after a placard protest by the Maitland Ratepayers and Residents Association. The protest took place outside a multi-story building on Janssens Road.
The group aims to protect the area’s residential character and historic identity, said chairperson Faiek Fredericks.
City responds to building violations
City spokesperson Luthando Tyhalibongo said the City issued a notice to the owner on February 21, 2025. The owner signed it on March 3.
While construction paused briefly, workers resumed activity by installing windows, violating the order.
“No plans were submitted for 1 Janssens Road. A plan for 3 Janssens Road exists, but the City hasn’t approved it,” Tyhalibongo said. “We have now referred the matter for criminal prosecution.”
Residents demand action
Fredericks said the association welcomed the legal action and urged stronger enforcement. “We want the building demolished, and the owner prosecuted. These actions must follow the law,” he said.
He also raised concerns that the developer owns seven properties in Cape Town and might be using the same tactics elsewhere.
“He builds slum-like dwellings. It’s possible others are involved. We hope the courts dig deeper.”
Calls for better oversight
Fredericks warned that the city’s failure to enforce stop-work orders threatens urban planning integrity.
He submitted a memorandum to the city. It highlighted issues like poor enforcement, safety risks, and outdated sewer systems.
“Our sewer system can’t handle all these extra buildings,” he added. “We need more building inspectors to improve monitoring.”
City councillor weighs in
Ward 56 Councillor Cheslyn Steenberg also criticized the lack of action. He said developers act without fear, and the City needs to do more.
Steenberg also asked the City to investigate another building near Maitland Day Hospital.
“The City is ignoring the people of Maitland. They reward developers while neglecting infrastructure. That cannot continue,” he said. “It must be people first, not profits.”
