KNYSNA NEWS - There is a prevailing feeling of relief among hopeful housing beneficiaries of Dam se Bos and Hlalani, as the housing projects, delayed for two years, are nearing completion.
Knysna Municipality has confirmed that 15 of the 20 planned housing units have now been completed, marking the final stages of the much-anticipated developments under tender T47/2021/22.
In a media release on Thursday 3 July, mayoral committee member and chairperson of the Integrated Human Settlements committee Neil Louw expressed satisfaction with the recent progess while acknowledging the setbacks faced along the way.
"This project had suffered a two-year delay due to challenges experienced with various contractors," Louw explained. "However, after the expiration of the original contract period in February 2024, the Integrated Human Settlements Directorate worked diligently with the remaining contractors to implement a remedial plan. Despite some setbacks, our consistent oversight and enforcement of contract conditions have yielded significant results."
Although most of the housing units are now complete, four homes in Nekkies east are still under construction. Louw reassured the public that corrective measures have been put in place, with the contractor formally instructed to complete the remaining units within 14 days.
"I am very pleased that this project is finally reaching completion," he said. "It hasn't been an easy journey, but this is what true service delivery looks like - persistence, accountability, and ensuring that our people receive what they've been promised. This is a win for our beneficiaries, as well as for the spirit of perseverance and accountability in local government. We are not only building homes; we are rebuilding trust in the system."
The housing project has been funded through subsidies from the Western Cape Department of Infrastructure, with no further delays in financial disbursement expected.
Progress continues in Nekkies East, where four housing units are expected to be completed within 14 days.
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