- Wynberg’s Waterloo Green is set for revitalisation after an interim eviction order was granted by the Western Cape High Court.
- The area had been plagued by crime, illegal occupations, and environmental degradation, but residents are hopeful for a safer, cleaner community.
- City officials are planning a significant clean-up operation, while future development plans for the property remain under discussion.
The community of Wynberg is on the verge of a much-needed revitalisation after the recent interim eviction order at Waterloo Green.
The area, which has been plagued by rising crime and deteriorating living conditions, may soon experience significant positive changes.
Over the past decade, Waterloo Green, once a vibrant community space, has become a hotspot for criminal activity and environmental degradation. Recent crime reports detail a range of severe incidents, including drug trafficking, theft, burglary and even murder, all within the vicinity of Waterloo Green and Waterloo Road. These crimes have caused considerable anxiety and unrest among residents, who have long called for action.
Illegal occupations
The interim eviction order, granted by the Western Cape High Court on Thursday 19 September, marks a pivotal moment for the community, offering hope that the area may finally be freed from the illegal occupations that have plagued. The relief is palpable among residents, who have endured the consequences of these illegal activities, including the vandalisation of buildings, rampant garbage accumulation, and a significant decline in public safety.
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In the immediate aftermath of the evictions, officials from the Regional Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) have announced plans to clean up the derelict buildings. While it remains undecided whether these structures will be demolished or restored, there is a strong possibility that at least one building, deemed structurally unsound, will be torn down. On a more hopeful note, a building on the property that appears to be structurally sound could potentially be restored, offering a beacon of renewal for the area.
“The residents of Wynberg have long been active in efforts to address the issues at Waterloo Green,” said Ward 62 councillor Emile Langenhoven. “Their persistent pressure led to the installation of fencing around the property and regular updates to the DPWI regarding the illegal activities taking place,” he added.
Community members have also participated in clean-up initiatives and met with ministers to discuss the destruction and ongoing concerns related to Waterloo Green.
Langenhoven shared an encouraging update with residents following a City of Cape Town clean-up operation at Waterloo Green.
“I am happy to inform you that an interim eviction has been granted by the Western Cape High Court for the houses at Waterloo Green. The Social Development department in the City of Cape Town will visit the site to assist anyone who requires placement at a safe space.
“Anyone who remains on the property as of (Monday) 23 September will be removed,” Langenhoven stated.
He emphasised the significance of this development, noting “this has been a huge step forward in the fight against crime and grime in Wynberg, considering the violent crimes around this property. “The matter will be heard on (Monday) 7 October to finalise the order. The next step is to determine what the future developments will be. I am told that once the eviction has taken place, a clean-up of the properties will commence, which, judging from the site visit, is going to be a gargantuan task.”
Community involvement
Langenhoven assured residents that he would continue to work closely with the DPWI to ensure a satisfactory conclusion to this issue. He concluded with a message of celebration and gratitude: “For now, I celebrate this victory with you and everyone who has been involved in this since the very beginning.”
Looking ahead, continued community involvement will be crucial. The residents have shown resilience and a commitment to restoring their neighbourhood, and their efforts will be instrumental in shaping the future of Waterloo Green. However, the ultimate decision on the property’s fate rests with the DPWI, which will determine whether restoration or demolition is the best course of action.
The community’s long-term goals for Waterloo Green include increased police presence and law enforcement operations to prevent further illegal activities. There is also a desire to see the area revitalised, potentially returning to its historical roots as a farmers market. Such a transformation would not only improve safety but also restore a sense of community and vibrancy.
As the road to revitalising Waterloo Green unfolds, the Wynberg community remains determined to reclaim their neighbourhood and ensure it becomes a safe and thriving part of Cape Town once again.
