Public Works Department joins City fight against homelessness

The National Department of Public Works has launched an eviction application to address the unlawful occupation near the Castle of Good Hope. Supported by the City of Cape Town, the eviction aims to restore the site for public use.

The Public Works Department reportedly launched the application with the Western Cape High Court today, after claims that the homeless people living there refused alternative accommodation.

According to reports, 16 people are living there with roughly 35 structures erected.

The City of Cape Town welcomed the decision, noting that the Castle of Good Hope’s status as a tourist attraction has been negatively impacted by the encampment, reportedly having experienced a 90% drop in visitor numbers.

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Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis reiterated that the City has offered assistance to affected persons, but that those offers have been rejected.

“[This] is a long outstanding matter since the unlawful occupation began during the national lockdown period. It is high time that this public place is restored to public use, not only for its tourism and economic importance, but also for the sake of the unlawful occupants, as accepting social assistance to get off the streets is the best choice for dignity, health, and well-being.”

The City says it’s been aiding the Public Works Department by documenting the personal circumstances of the unlawful occupants through on-site surveys.

More evictions in the CBD

Earlier this week, the Western Cape High Court granted the City a final eviction order for various unlawful occupation sites in Cape Town’s CBD.

These sites include Buitengracht Street, FW De Klerk Boulevard, Foregate Square, the taxi rank and Foreshore, Helen Suzman Boulevard, Strand Street, Foreshore/N1, Virginia Avenue, and Mill Street Bridge.

People living in the encampments here have been given until 30 July to move, else they will be evicted by the Sheriff of the Court.

The Western Cape Department of Social Development welcomed the High Court’s recent ruling, supporting the City’s efforts to provide dignified care and reintegration services. MEC Jaco Londt encouraged those living on the streets to access available spaces for their safety, especially with colder months approaching.

“The Western Cape Government and municipalities like the City of Cape Town are working tirelessly to support homeless individuals, but we cannot do it alone. We would like to encourage communities and affected individuals to work with us.”

The High Court granted the City two similar eviction orders earlier this year. The Sheriff enforced eviction orders at the Green Point Tennis Courts on 22 February and near Nelson Mandela Boulevard on 10 April.