The City of Cape Town is nearing the completion of the first 1 000 ceilings, the first phase of its R133 million large-scale ceiling retrofitting initiative.

The first phase of the initiative comprising 8 001 units between 2015 and 2017, is under way in Broadlands (Strand), Wesbank, Kalkfontein, Vrygrond and Lwandle.

The pilot roll-out has been completed in Eureka Estate (Uitsig) and comprised 250 units.

“It is hoped that the first phase of the project will be completed in September 2016. Phenomenal progress has been made,” says Councillor Benedicta van Minnen, the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Human Settlements.

Improving the lives of the vulnerable

“Between 1994 and 2005, the majority of State-subsidised housing units were constructed without insulated ceilings and weatherproofing. This was because the subsidy which was then provided by the National Government did not make provision for the installation of ceilings,” Van Minnen explains.

“Having to live without a ceiling has caused much discomfort for residents who are subsequently affected by the poor thermal performance of the homes as well as condensation which gives rise to damp conditions and inferior internal air quality. This also holds health implications for our residents,” she notes.

“It is estimated that in Cape Town alone, there are approximately 40 000 State-subsidised homes that do not have ceilings. It is a great task but, ceiling by ceiling, we are trying to improve the lives of our more vulnerable residents.”

After 2005, the standard for subsidised housing was improved and the housing subsidy was increased to provide ceilings, weatherproofing and partitioned bedrooms.

As with most other City Human Settlements projects, community engagement and buy-in is key. It is envisaged that Phase 2 of the Ceiling Retrofit Initiative will be implemented in the following areas in the new financial year: Phumlani, Chris Nissen Park, Sir Lowry’s Pass Village, Heinz Park, Silver City, Gordon’s Bay and Macassar.