A long-vacant 2.4-hectare parcel of Salt Rock land could soon unlock the community’s first dedicated adult neurodiversity centre.

The Mikhail D iHope Foundation officially acquired the R2.4-million site from the Department of Public Works last week, setting a 22-year dream in motion.

Foundation founder Nirasha Dhaniram has been lobbying for support for neurodiverse children and adults since her son was diagnosed with autism in 2004. She first started a small support programme from her garage, before eventually opening the Imbalito Hope Centre for Neurodiversity in the Ballito business park.

Many of the children she helped have now become adults, bringing a new set of concerns for parents and caregivers.

“Parents keep asking what happens next. They worry about who will care for their children when they are no longer here,” said Dhaniram.

“Across South Africa, there remains a serious shortage of services and opportunities for neurodiverse adults.”

Plans for the Salt Rock site include educational and therapy facilities, vocational training centres, healthcare support services, recreational amenities and, ultimately, assisted residential living. An eco-food garden, bakery, coffee shop, art studios and sports facilities are among the projects envisioned to help neurodiverse individuals develop skills, gain independence and participate fully in community life.

Public Works and Infrastructure MEC Martin Meyer said the project demonstrates how unused state-owned land can be transformed to serve communities.

“This piece of land has stood empty for decades. It will now benefit this community and people on the neurodivergent spectrum,” he said.

Meyer added that the department owns more than 10 000 properties across the province and has prioritised making suitable land available to non-profit organisations, faith-based groups and community initiatives. More than 80 properties have already been released, with another 100 expected to become available in the coming months.