Hanover Park ward councillor Antonio van der Rheede says he does not want a planned housing development for the area to be “just a concrete block” but a design that can be a blueprint for future developments.
The City of Cape Town’s council passed a resolution on Thursday October 25 for housing developments in Hanover Park and Macassar, which, together, are valued at more than R12 million.
The City says its Transport and Urban Development Authority (TDA) will now appoint contractors for the developments.
Former transport and urban planning Mayco member Brett Herron said the houses could take two to five years to complete.
The TDA had to seek full council approval before signing the contracts because the developments had been in the pipeline for more than three years, the City said.
Some “3000 housing opportunities” split between Macassar and Hanover Park would be available in next two to five years, “depending on the type of development and provided that there are no unforeseen delays,” Mr Herron said.
Mr Van Der Rheede said he had lobbied for a housing development for the area as the community had identified housing as one of its biggest needs.
He said he could not give any details on the Hanover Park development as it was still in its early stages.
According to the City, the teams appointed now will first see to the land-use applications and environmental assessment, before the housing development can start.
“I don’t want the same kind of design as in the past,” said Mr Van Der Rheede. “Safety is a priority for me. There must also be safe spaces. I will give my input on the type of design of the houses. The people have waited long, and we must give them the kind of house that can be used as a blueprint for future developments.
“If the design is good, I am sure people will take greater pride and ownership of their houses.
“I grew up in those flats, and I don’t want the same kind of housing development to happen. We will also look at using technology to help residents with cheaper electricity, for example.”
Mr Herron said the developments were meant to create integrated and sustainable communities with access to social amenities, work opportunities and public transport.
“We foresee that the developments will include site-and-serviced erven, double- and single-storey semi-detached units, as well as double- and single-storey free-standing units. Where possible, the developments will include community facilities, open spaces where residents can socialise, and commercial and retail opportunities.”
The Athlone News asked the City for specific information on Hanover Park housing development, but it did not respond by the time of going to print.