Housing in Southern Africa January 2016

Housing

S peaking at the handover of apartments to beneficiaries at the Sea Views Development, she told media, “We have all walked a very long way to reach this historic milestone. Right from the beginning, we had to contend with many differ- ences and difficulties. We have had to stand firm in the face of numerous detractors.” After years of strained relations and a complete breakdown of trust between the community and gov- ernment, the city and Hangberg residents came together to sign the Hangberg Peace Accord, which was an order of the court. “And, to estab- lish the Peace andMediation Forum,” says de Lille. The Sea Views project is now a Hangberg success story. She goes on to explain, “It is testa- ment towhat is possiblewhenwe see challenges as an opportunity towork together and unify around our com- mon goals. A working relationship of mutual respect and consideration Sea Views The City of Cape Town Executive Mayor, Patricia de Lille, says that the IntegratedDevelopment Plan for Hangberg has finally come together.

are due for completion by April 2016. “I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Project Steering Committee for their work in recom- mending the source areas for the housing projects. The beautiful mo- saicmural on the surrounding wall at Sea Views creates amemorable visual impression. I believe that this artwork symbolises what we have achieved here. We have taken many separate pieces and put them together to cre- ate one cohesive and integrated en- tity. Many fragmented opinions and ideas have come together in pursuit of a shared goal, which we have now achieved together,” says de Lille. She concluded, “This is the be- ginning of a new chapter here in Hangberg.” ■

had to be the real foundation of any development here. We can all share in a sense of accomplishment, and take pride inmaking good on the commit- ments of the Peace Accord.” To the beneficiaries, she added, “Welcome to your newhomes. The families have a safe living space to call their own.” This includes a landscaped environ- ment and play areas for the children. “In line with our approach to prioritise transit-oriented develop- ment, this complex is situated in close proximity to employment, key transport routes, social amenities and schools. We are not only commit- ted to rebuilding this community, but also to giving you the opportunities to rebuild your lives.” The remaining units at Sea Views

January 2016