GOOD press statement by Suzette Little,
GOOD: City of Cape Town Councillor
11 April 2022
To say that DA housing policy has been feeble is the biggest understatement of its 16-year rule in the City of Cape Town.
The city claims that finding suitable land for housing remains a challenge. Yet, the DA-ruled Cape Town is the country’s largest landowner behind the National Government. Is it the lack of land holding the city back, or a blatant disregard for the plight of the poor and those in need of homes?
A case can be made for the latter. Over several years, we have seen deals made for a select “clique”, where properties primed for social housing were sold below market prices to private owners and developers.
At a sub-council 11 meeting on the 23 March 2022, an item was tabled and an agreement for the transfer of 22 Windsor Road was made. We opposed the agreement.
We have questions. How was this property identified for its specific purpose, and were the necessary procedures followed for its identification and transfer?
This property exists on a transport node (opposite the Lansdowne Station) which would make it suitable for social housing and/or GAP housing.
The Department of Human settlements is yet to respond to our query.
Alienation of property is being made without any input from the Directorate.
We’ve known for a while that the City of Cape Town isn’t serious about addressing spatial injustice. How do we confront the backlog for housing when the viable property is alienated without any comment?
The local community needs a shelter that would house those who are homeless. It would benefit from a comprehensive reintegration program.
How did the city government alienate land under its control without comments from Human Settlements?
We demand the City Manager answer the following questions:
- Will the City be implementing a reversionary clause should this space no longer be utilized as a shelter?
- Why has the Human Settlement Directorate not responded to enquiries?
- Are they aware of the location of this site?
- What is the market related price for this land?
- As the property will be used for Social Development will the price be reduced?
- How was this property identified?
- What competitive process was followed?
- How many applications were received in terms of the competitive process?
- How many other enquiries have been made for this land?
The GOOD caucus will oppose the alienation of land without due consideration of the housing crisis in which the city currently finds itself. We vote in favour of motions that prioritize social housing, not those that deprive vulnerable Capetonians of shelter.
Media enquiries:
Suzette Little, GOOD: City of Cape Town Councillor
Cell: 073 321 5036
Email: suzettel@forgood.org.za
Samkelo Mgobozi, GOOD: Media Manager
Cell: 079 231 5977 (WhatsApp) / 082 968 4021 (calls)
Email: samm@forgood.org.za