Plot 323 residents receive temporary housing

On Friday, 8 May the Minister of Human Settlements, Water and Sanitation, Lindiwe Sisulu, visited Plot 32 in Wilgespruit to assess progress with the construction of temporary residential units (TRUs).

These TRUs will accommodate the residents of Plot 323 who have been living in tents for almost four years. The minister was shown the perimeter fence that has been erected, as well as the 50 units that have been completed. Twenty more units were expected to be completed by 15 May.

The material used for the TRUs is called Rockhard and is said to be better than wood as it does not burn easily. Some of the other amenities to be provided to this gated community will be a recreational area and children’s playground, washing lines and regular refuse collection by Pikitup.

The community has also formed a cooperative that will venture into farming, and a piece of land has been reserved for this purpose. The female-led cooperative will plant fruit and vegetables with the aim of selling them to the big retail stores (Spar, Pick n Pay, Checkers etc) within the ward.Informal waste pickers that live on Plot 323 will be supported to open a mini buy-back centre, and their operational area will be cordoned off to ensure safety and that the plot remains clean.

See videos of the visit here: