eThekwini: Illovo 'homeless' project not permanent shelter
The Deputy Mayor of
eThekwini says the 400-bed facility being built in Lower Illovo is not a
permanent shelter for the homeless.
Zandile Myeni has told residents at a meeting at the Amanzimtoti Civic Centre that it will be a rehab centre for homeless people seeking change.
Residents have voiced strong opposition to the project, saying it will put their safety and security at risk, particularly because it's going up near a school.
They have told Myeni that their needs have not been considered.
One local says they only found out about the project in January when construction had already begun - and assumed it was a clinic or police station.
"[I thought] we are [going to] get something [amenity], and then what happens? It is a building for a homeless shelter. We have got nothing against homeless people, but you can't bring that magnitude into the community.It is not just right, that place must not be there."
READ: Illovo residents seek answers on shelter project
Others are calling for construction work to stop, saying there’s still no clarity on who the building will accommodate.
" You are calling it a place for flood victims. You are calling it a place for [the] homeless and all kinds of things. There is no clear transparency. So, as much as you say you want to engage with us, you have lost [our] trust. That is where the challenge is."
The Deputy Mayor told residents at the civic centre that the facility will run a six-month rehab programme.
" If you go there, you are going there for a certain period. After that, you go back home because remember I said this is for those who are now saying 'I have been on the street, I've done it all, but I need help.'"
Myeni has assured the community that security measures will be in place, adding that engagements with locals will continue.
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