Cape Town hands over 26 more homes as Elsies River infill project advances

The City of Cape Town handed over keys to 26 families at the Florida housing site on Thursday, 23 October, the latest delivery under the Elsies River Infill Housing Project.

The project spans six sites, with the largest expected to accommodate 303 homes and the smallest nine. The City says building within established communities gives residents access to public transport, schools, essential services and economic opportunities.

Mayoral Committee Member for Human Settlements Councillor Carl Pophaim attended the handover alongside Ward Councillors Beverley van Reenen and Charles Esau and Subcouncil Chairperson Franchesca Walker. Pophaim said the City intended to keep delivering homes despite disruptions affecting the project.

"This project has faced its fair share of challenges, but our commitment to the people of Elsies River has never wavered," he said. "We will not allow disruptions, intimidation or attempts to manipulate housing allocations to steal the dreams of deserving families."

The City reiterated that beneficiaries are selected through its Housing Allocation Policy and Housing Needs Register, subject to qualifying criteria and South African legislation, to prevent queue-jumping and interference with beneficiary lists. "Public housing is not a political prize to be handed out to the loudest voices or those with the strongest connections," Pophaim said.

The City did not provide further detail on the disruptions experienced at the project or the number of homes completed at each of the six sites. It acknowledged that Cape Town's broader housing need remains substantial, while maintaining that each completed home represents progress for the qualifying household. Residents who suspect unlawful activity or interference with housing projects can contact the City's Public Emergency Communication Centre on 021 480 7700.