The prospectus provides a strategic overview of what the city envisions for the sites.
"We want the developments on these sites to contain a mix of income groups. In so doing, we can create integrated communities. Another important aspect is that we want to see tenure-blind designs. Meaning, the housing units should be of similar design, quality, and architecture throughout the development, irrespective of the target market and income group," said the city’s mayoral committee member for transport and urban development, Councillor Brett Herron.
Bidders must submit their proposals for the sites by 27 February 2018. The proposals will be screened by the Bid Evaluation Committee and those that meet the conditions will be open for public viewing and voting.
"We will host an exhibition where the residents and interested parties will be able to see what the bidders are proposing for each site. The public will have the opportunity to vote for their preferred housing developments. Thus, we will take the opinion of residents into account when we evaluate the proposals that we have received from the private sector," said Herron.
The developments must be financially sustainable in the long-term, taking into account the operational and maintenance costs over a period of at least 30 years.
"We have set a minimum requirement for the number of social housing units for each site. The use of alternative building material and green technologies is also encouraged. We must save water and electricity and reduce our impact on our natural resources as more people move to the city for a better life," said Herron.
The city will follow a partnership approach where we will collaborate with all relevant stakeholders and, most importantly, with the people who currently live and work in Woodstock and Salt River.
"I have had various meetings with residents’ associations and interest groups in Woodstock and Salt River the past weeks. I have also received many letters. One of the key concerns raised is that affordable housing developments may have a negative influence on property prices and the overall character of these neighbourhoods.
"The sites that we have identified for these developments are derelict, unused and an eyesore. We, together with the private sector, intend to invest millions of rands in these sites. This investment will significantly contribute to the regeneration of Woodstock and Salt River in general, and will assist in halting the urban decay that has characterised certain parts of these neighbourhoods. Most importantly, however, by developing these sites we are beginning to create a new urban fabric based on access and inclusivity for all – these count among the key priorities listed in the city’s Organisational Development and Transformation Plan," said Herron.
