With the squatters removed from the space next to the Three Anchor Bay tennis courts, the rehabilitation of the land and tennis courts can begin.
In 2022, a fence was put up around the tennis courts in anticipation of the eviction of those who had set up camp there (“Homeless fenced in”, Atlantic Sun, February 11, 2022).
“The fenced area is under lease to a private company who have rented it from the City for the purpose of creating a multi-sporting facility,” said Ward 54 councillor Nicola Jowell.
“The City has approved their first phase concept plans for the rehabilitation of tennis courts and the installation of padel courts on the site.”
“The final building plans were submitted. Once completed the tenant will then proceed with further phases. This will also include the rehabilitation of the land that was occupied which will also involve landscaping.”
According to Anthony Loubser, managing director of Empex, the firm that holds the lease for the area surrounding the tennis courts, the squatters caused their business direct and indirect loss.
“As per our tender and lease conditions, we will establish a multi-sport and recreation facility that will allow community access. Plans for the first phase are being submitted as we speak and work will commence once the City gives the go-ahead,” said Mr Loubser.
He said the first phase of padel court construction is planned to be completed by the end of April.
“In the first phase four padel courts will be erected on the space currently occupied by the last three tennis courts, which are in a state of neglect. The two tennis courts closest to the tennis clubhouse will be refurbished and the clubhouse will be upgraded to serve the tennis and padel players and spectators. We are considering plans for the upgrade of the area closest to the beach (the main tent city site). Initially the site will be rehabilitated while we await feedback from the City,” he said.
Ms Jowell says that more than 30 of the 64 squatters have accepted the offer of assistance to move to the City’s Safe Space or to get building kits at predetermined sites.
“There have been a couple of the previous occupants who have returned to the site to attempt to erect structures and these have been prevented through the pre-emptive and swift actions of law enforcement,” she said.
In the Bo-Kaap there is a squatter camp known as the kraal that is also under scrutiny for the eviction process, according to Ward 77 councillor Francine Higham.
“These informal settlements have been in the area for years, and since I started as a ward councillor I have been actively engaging with all relevant property owners to ensure these areas are properly managed. It is important that we operate within the law in this regard, and as with our other unlawfully occupied properties in the City, the City will have to proceed with an eviction application in order to secure the land. This is due to the National Prevention of Illegal Eviction Act (PIE Act). I will continue to engage with these responsible departments and the City’s legal team to explore all options to secure these properties and ensure that they contribute positively to the surrounding community,” said Ms Higham.
