Question NW2775 to the Minister of Public Enterprises
11 January 2022 - NW2775
Siwisa, Ms AM to ask the Minister of Public Enterprises
Whether, with reference to Transnet, that has a lot of vacant buildings which have turned into hubs for criminal activities: (1) There are any plans in collaboration with the Department of Human Settlements to turn the buildings into low cost housing facilities for middle-class citizens who cannot afford to buy houses and/or who do not qualify for RDP houses, to occupy and provide a safe environment for their children. (2) If not, why not; (3) If so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
According to the information received from Transnet
(1). Transnet is engaging with the Department of Human Settlements and the Housing Development Agency with the aim of facilitating the disposal of its mass housing portfolio and some of the vacant pieces of land to municipalities, so that they can be used for human settlement purposes.
(2). N/A.
(3). A portion of Transnet’s property portfolio is reclassified as non-core as it is not required to support operations. Transnet entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with the National Department of Human Settlements to create housing opportunities across the country and facilitate the release of vacant land, buildings and hostels to convert them into liveable residential accommodation.
To this end, Transnet has made available vast tracks of land across the country to various municipalities and other state organs for the development of human settlements.
Engagements between Transnet, the National Department of Human Settlements, Housing Development Agency and municipalities are ongoing to conclude the release of the hostels portfolio for human settlements.