City halts sale of vacant property
THE CITY of Cape Town has decided to halt the auction of a vacant piece of property in Goodwood after complaints from residents.
The empty plot, which stretches over Wiener, Paarl and De Villiers streets, was set to go under the hammer on Thursday.
The community objected to the sale, citing concerns about overcrowding and crime. The community has said the space is mostly used for outdoor activities and social gatherings.
The city’s latest decision has been met with relief from the community.
Resident Salie Behardien said this was a step in the right direction.
“I think that Mayco member for Assets and Facilities management, Councillor Stuart Diamond, understood our frustrations and the community’s needs, and he responded to us, unlike our councillors,” Behardien said.
He added that what was needed was clear and transparent communication between the community and its councillors.
The plot has been vacant for 20 years and the initial sale of the property occurred two years ago. The community said they had had a few meetings with the councillors explaining their plight.
However, councillors had not responded adequately to their complaints, they said.
The community of Goodwood even created a Facebook page called “Concerned Goodwood community” where they have raised awareness.
In an e-mail, Stuart Diamond advised the community that the auction of nine properties in Goodwood had been withdrawn. “We have taken cognisance of your concerns expressed with regard to sale of the public open spaces and will be conducting further technical work.”
He also added that the City will continue to look at options to use these open spaces.
“Residents need to be mindful that there are large tracts of public open spaces lying vacant and the City will continue looking at how best to rationalise these open spaces.”