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GEORGE NEWS - The recent protest marches on housing-related issues is an indication of the city's rapid growth and shortage of housing opportunities. So said Mayor Melvin Naik in his address to Council last week, in which he portrayed the stark reality George needs to face.
"Irrespective of how big or small the impact of protest marches is, it is a call on us as incumbent politicians and administration to continuously review our strategies and approaches towards service delivery," said Naik.
He said the protest marches indicate that there is a growing demand on basic service delivery. "This in turn brings with it a financial challenge to this municipality for financial assistance which we didn't made provision for."
George has a housing waiting list of 17 417 potential beneficiaries, but the number is increasing daily. A survey was conducted and 6 661 backyard dwellers were recorded on the database. Naik said the situation compels the municipality to engage on a "more than regular basis" with the provincial government for financial support.
"A request for funding was forwarded to the provincial department of human settlement (DoHS) for funding of a pilot project to provide basic services to vulnerable groups living in backyards (aged, sick, disabled). Unfortunately, this funding has not been approved yet," said Naik.
DA Elizabeth Stroebel & ANC Langa Langa. Photos: Michelle Pienaar
Assistance and strategies
The municipality is currently assisting with 6kl free water and 50 extra units for indigent backyard dwellers.
He said provision has been made to accommodate 237 backyard dwellers of 60 years and older who qualify for a housing subsidy, in the Erf 325 East housing project (next to Rosedale).
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The South African Local Government Association, in cooperation with national and provincial government, is drafting a strategy for backyard dwellers in liaison with local authorities.
Naik said last Saturday's open day for housing was a huge success, since 1 216 people who need assistance were recorded. He said judging on the enquiries and applications received it is evident that there is a big need for middle income housing.
"That is why it has been decided that a subdivision application for the 66 erven in Delville Park will be brought to Council for consideration for the provision of middle income housing," said Naik.
Read the full mayoral addres of Melvin Naik.
Read a related article here: GCF to take to the streets again
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