- Woodstock residents are optimistic about a decline in crime as Prasa begins demolishing dilapidated buildings.
- These structures, long considered crime hubs, allegedly contributed to rising crime rates in the area.
- The demolition is part of a larger plan to improve safety in the community.
Residents in Woodstock say they are hopeful that they will see some relief in crime-related incidents now that the process to demolish dilapidated Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) buildings on Railway Avenue and Tide Street finally started.
According to the residents, the former Drill Press Buildings has been a crime hub for many years after it was allegedly taken over by “undocumented foreign nationals.”
Gary Adams, a resident and community activist, says they are pleased that their pleas have been adhered to.
According to Adams, crime has surged in the area because of the problem buildings.Adams says:
“From 22:00 all through the night people would ascend from these buildings to commit petty crime in the area. We have written many letters to Prasa, but it seemed as if (they) fell on deaf ears initially. Prasa must take responsibility for that whole space and along the railway line.”
READ MORE: Prasa commits to demolish eyesore derelict buildings in Woodstock
Rob Marshall, U-Watch secretary, says: “This will take some pressure off police, law enforcement, fire and rescue, solid waste, water and sanitation, and electricity department, all of which regularly have to deal with the problems emanating from this building.”
Safety
Marshall says the legal eviction proceedings will impact the safety of residents.
Zinobulali Mihi, Prasa’s marketing and communications officer, says the contractor was appointed in April and received site access on Wednesday 12 June after doing the mandatory safety process.
“They were appointed for the demolition of various problem buildings that fall under our property division, the PRASA Corporate Real Estate Solutions (Cres). The Contractor started to work on the other sites at the end of June 2024. Their scope of work is to complete the appointed list of buildings within a six-month contractual period.”
When asked about the plans for the site, Mihi said it “will be opened” for development options.
READ MORE: ‘We are tired of empty promises’: Woodstock residents demand feedback from Prasa
Ian McMahon, Ward 115 councillor, says while he welcomes the demolition, the entire strip along the precinct needs to be addressed.
It is a start and naturally the “recycling” that happens near the Woodstock Drop-off is also a pull factor to the congregations that space, and we will have to work on how we overcome that too, so it isn’t just the “occupied” buildings but the entire precinct that needs to be addressed. Thanks to Prasa for coming to our meetings and planning regarding this area, and taking these steps, with more to come.”
