Jaco Rademeyer of Jaco Rademeyer Estates in Port Elizabeth, himself a multiple property owner, has praised the municipality’s vision in wanting to create a vehicle to clamp down on persons who allow their property to fall into a dilapidated, neglected or unsightly state.

“An area such as Central, which has fallen prey to serial offenders, has suffered immeasurably despite continuous efforts to restore its image,” he said yesterday. “Improving the general condition and appearance of properties in this area will no doubt have a positive economic spin-off in the long run.”

Rademeyer said the restoration of properties was vital before one could expect significant economic growth, as investors were cautious about buildings that required a lot of maintenance.

He added that the proposed by-laws could have other positive spin-offs as well. “Resurgence in an area such as Central will aid initiatives like Operation Harmony to weed out negative elements such as crime.”

The municipality’s inherent lack of control was partly to blame for the dilapidated state of Central and other areas, he said.

“This is a very positive move by the municipality. It shows they are willing and serious about taking responsibility for the economic growth and well-being of the city and its residents.”

Rademeyer added that there were landlords in some areas who were focused on maximising profits through letting and subletting, with little or no regard for the general upkeep of it.

“I recently found myself in a situation where I literally had to step over half-naked and half-asleep people to do a valuation. The living conditions were appalling and the interior unhygienic and in total disrepair.”

He pointed out that an area such as Central, which is steeped in history, was part of the heart and soul of the city and should be looked after at all cost. “If we as Port Elizabethans allow it to fall into disrepair, we lose part of our heritage.”