The Metro’s Human Settlements Department has recently announced its intention to begin evacuating residents from several high-rise buildings that it says pose a risk to public safety.

The measures that the department is taking are in line with the city’s safety plan, an integrated safety and security strategy which emphasises a community-based policing approach, technological solutions, and collaboration among various stakeholders.

The metro’s safety plan aims to eradicate lawlessness and non-compliance, while preserving safety and stimulating economic growth.

MMC for Human Settlements Alderman Aaron Maluleka said this decision followed extensive inspections and consultations aimed at ensuring that all municipal rental properties meet the required health, safety, and building compliance standards for the well-being of tenants.

“Many of these buildings have not undergone major renovations since 2008/09 and continue to face structural and maintenance challenges.

“The city’s ability to maintain these properties has been constrained by limited maintenance budgets and very low rental payment levels (7–8%), making it increasingly difficult to keep the buildings safe and habitable,” Maluleka said.

The affected buildings include the Blesbok, Bosbok, Ou Stalshoogte, Nuwe Stalshoogte, Die Heuwel, Groenveld, and JJ Bosmanhuis buildings.

These developments were found to be dangerous by the building control unit within the Economic Development and Spatial Planning Department.

The metro said it must act in compliance with the National Building and Health and Safety Regulations.

The MMC said to safeguard tenants, the safety plan will be carried out in phases and in a co-ordinated manner to minimise disruptions.

The city will continue to engage with affected tenants throughout the process to ensure transparency and co-operation.

Alternative accommodation, where available, will be communicated directly to qualifying vulnerable tenants.

The metro has already begun co-ordinating public participatory meetings with residents of the affected buildings.

“We remain dedicated to ensuring that all municipal properties meet the highest standards of safety and compliance, and that residents are housed in dignified and secure conditions.

“We are further committed to ensuring the safety and welfare of all residents and will continue to engage with affected tenants throughout the evacuation process,” Maluleka said.

Public hearings will take place as follows:

– November 11: Bosbok and Blesbok (Arcadia, 17:30 at Sammy Marks Council Chamber)

– November 11: Ou Stalshoogte and Nuwe Stalshoogte (Arcadia, 17:30 at Sammy Marks Council Chamber)

– November 12: Die Heuwel and Groenveld on-site (Proclamation Hill, 17:30)

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