Gauteng MEC of Human Settlements and Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs Jacob Mamabolo says a mixed housing plan will be ideal for areas affected by dolomite.

A total of 66 informal settlements in Ekurhuleni are currently located in areas not suitable for development and were earmarked for relocation. Mamabolo on Sunday met with the residents of the Somalia informal settlement, near Vosloorus where he engaged with the community on how housing plans will be affected by dolomite.

“An investigation was conducted to establish whether the land was dolomitic and if the department can be able to build houses. The report showed that there is dolomite but there are parts of the land where we can build,” he said.

“A mixed housing plan will be ideal for the area, which will include building higher densities and also including commercial developments which will also promote the township economy.”

 

Residents say no to flats

He added that the land-owner will submit building plans which will provide insight on how to build for residents in the area as well as how to ensure that such buildings do not place the safety of residents at risk.

He continued that the department must also, in consultation with the community leadership, understand why the community is opposed to flats and prefer the standard RDP housing and yards. This follows objections from some residents that flats did not offer privacy.

 

Overcoming space constraints

In response to this, Mamabolo highlighted to residents that Gauteng is one of the smallest provinces in the country with a large population.

“To add to that we are faced with the problem of dolomite and as government we have to find innovative ways of providing homes to everyone. An audit of all households will also be verified and new shacks will not be allowed in the area.”

As part of Gauteng Premier David Makhura’s commitment, MEC Mamabolo said the department will work together to revitalise township economy in the area.

 

(Adapted from SAnews.gov.za)