Question NW1864 to the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
19 May 2022 - NW1864
Graham, Ms SJ to ask the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
(1)With reference to the abandoned property owned by her department situated at 11 Mile End Road, Diep River, Western Cape, what (a) steps are being taken to protect the property against further vandalism and invasion by illegal occupiers and (b) plans are in place to ensure that the (i) illegal occupiers are removed, and (ii) property is refurbished and maintained; (2) whether she and/or her department intend to meet with the residents to discuss the future plans of the building given its shocking state and the impact on the residents; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure:
(1)
(a) I have been informed by the Department that a Security Company has been appointed as from 4 May 2022 to secure the property, contain invasion and prevent further invasion.
(b)
(i) Yes, now that the State of Disaster has been lifted, the Department will follow due legal processes in dealing with the unlawfull occupants.
(ii) The Cape Town Regional Office has received a request from one of the departmental internal Units, Human Capital Investment, for the coversion and refurbishment of the subject property into student accommodation. The unit provides bursaries to needy and deserving students in the country in line with the unit’s service delivery objectives. The application / request is currently being processed internaly for approval and budget allocation.
(2) The Department has not yet received any request from the surrounding residents for a meeting. However, should such request be received, arrangements will be made to meet with the residents.