Velddrif housing concerns being addressed

The Western Cape Department of Human Settlements continues to investigate various housing concerns raised by community members in Noordhoek, Velddrif.

In December 2019, I re-engaged the broader community about the work which the task team completed, as well as the findings relating to complaints made.

During violent protest last year, 53 newly constructed homes were damaged at a cost of R3,88 million.

The task team, which had to consist of 4 apolitical community members, duly elected by the broader community, 7 staff members from the provincial Department of Human Settlements and 3 municipal officials, along with the current Project Steering Committee (PSC), had to submit a report to me by the end of November 2019.

During my engagement, some residents raised concerns about why they could not benefit. I requested that these individuals should appeal the reasons why they could not qualify for a housing opportunity. To date, not a single potential beneficiary has appealed.

Pursuant to the conclusion of further investigations, I intend to return to the area to once again engage the community.

I also encourage the broader community to not allow themselves to be misled by those with political agendas, and instead insist on continued frank discussions so that amicable solutions can be found.

The damages to these properties have now led to the delay of beneficiaries moving in. I urge the community to take ownership of this project so that it can be completed timeously. This will also ensure that the rightful beneficiaries are able to swiftly take occupation.

As the Western Cape Government, we remain committed to accelerating human settlement delivery, while promoting social inclusion through the development of integrated, resilient and sustainable human settlements in an open opportunity and safe society.