Massive social housing project launched in Midrand

Human Settlements Minister Thembi Simelane and Gauteng MEC for Human Settlements Tasneem Motara did the handover.

The launch is part of the government's efforts to provide affordable rental housing in urban areas and good-quality accommodation for the upper end of the low-income market. 

The primary objectives are urban restructuring and creating sustainable human settlements.

Over the past 30 years, the government has built over five million houses for South Africans

The Grand Central houses 990 units for individuals earning a monthly salary of between R1,820 and R22,000. 

Simelane said the social housing project is meant to accommodate disabled persons as the RDP housing era comes to an end.

"If you drive around, you see RDPs are being demolished, People are building for themselves, it means that an era for that housing policy now needs to focus on the vulnerable groups of people living with disabilities who are unable to make ends meet or child-headed households and a category of the elderly who are unable to have their own houses."

Residents of the Grand Central Towers said they are happy with the housing units.

One of the tenants, Valerie Nhlapho, said the facility is convenient for them.

"We have a tuck shop here; we have a gym as well. So, we do not even have to leave the area. Everything is managed well, and issues are attended to as to when they arise. So far, so good. We have not had many issues. I think they just need more space."

Disabled tenant Thabo Mashaba added that the facilities are disabled-friendly since all amenities are close by.

"It's home away from home. The complex is wheelchair-friendly, and everything is just outside my doorstep, everything is accessible. We are very safe as we have security stationed outside 24/7."

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