More than 200 to benefit in Forest village post lockdown

Following the lockdown, it is anticipated that in excess of 200 beneficiaries will move into their new homes in the Forest Village Housing Development in Eersteriver. We are looking forward to sharing this exciting life changing experience with our beneficiaries.

COVID-19 has placed our country in an unprecedented challenging period, but we believe if we adhere to the lockdown declarations, maintain social distance and practice effective and good hygiene, we will be victorious.

Prior to the lockdown, final touches were being concluded on the units, but these could not be finalised in time. Pursuant to the lifting of the lockdown, the contractors will prioritise finishing the last of their work, so that the already identified and deserving beneficiaries can take occupancy.

It is further anticipated that units will also be handed over in Bredasdorp and Paternoster, as well as the Bitou, - Witzenberg - and the Theewaterskloof municipal areas.

Since these units already have identified beneficiaries, I call on communities to not attempt to illegally occupy or vandalise them. Damaged units would have to be repaired, with funding that is not available and it will also lead to occupancy delays for those who were meant to move into these units.

In addition, those participating in these activities will be contravening the President’s lockdown declaration, which could lead to prosecution. Whilst all effort has been made by the Department to secure the sites, we are aware of threats made by certain communities to invade the houses and serviced sites.

We are also aware that most of those who incite others to invade, have either been assisted by the state previously or do not meet the qualifying criteria. I urge residents across the Province to be our eyes and ears and to report any individual or group, seeking to embark on these illegal activities to law enforcement agencies.

During this challenging period for us as a nation, we cannot allow any lawlessness in our society and those in contravention, must face the full might of the law. Illegal occupations cannot be condoned as it hampers the delivery of houses to the very people that need it most. Our particular focus is on the most vulnerable and needy in our communities to ensure they are prioritised for housing delivery.

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