A long-awaited social housing project in Sheffield, set to deliver up to 723 homes, is moving ahead after years of legal battles between the residents and the municipality.

In 2023, residents of the Taffeni informal settlement reached a settlement with KwaDukuza municipality (KDM), securing their right to remain on municipal land and benefit from future housing development. Last week, KDM appointed Asande Projects Consulting & Engineering as the independent environmental assessment practitioner to oversee the process under the National Environmental Management Act. The development is expected to begin in 18 months.

“We are still in the process of obtaining Environmental Impact Assessment and Township Establishment approvals. Once secured, we will begin installing services and then construction,” said Asande spokesperson Philisiwe Vilakazi.

The project will be located between Elaleni Coastal Forest Estate and Sheffield Hills. It is aimed at low-income earners, many of whom work in Sheffield and surrounding areas, and will benefit more than 300 households currently living in informal structures.

Abahlali baseMjondolo general secretary Thapelo Mohapi welcomed the move.

“The poor must not be displaced to the outskirts. Working-class people should live within growing cities, not be excluded from them. This project reflects that ideal,” he said.

The development will include up to 723 housing units, along with infrastructure such as roads, stormwater systems, potable water and sanitation. Future phases could include other essential services such as a school or clinic.

Taffeni resident Sinenhlanhla Mcanyana said residents were hopeful but frustrated by delays.

“We are happy about the housing, but we were promised interim structures and sanitation by November 2023. That hasn’t happened,” she said.

Mohapi confirmed that Asande has employed locals and that infrastructure is under way.

“Road access and sewer lines have been established. Communal toilets will be built,” he said.

The Draft Basic Assessment Report is open for public comment until May 23 and is available on Asande’s website.

The Dolphin Coast Residents and Ratepayers Association (Docrra) is reviewing the proposal and will register as an “interested and affected party.”

KDM and nearby estates had not responded to our requests for comment at the time of publication.

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