At a ministerial visit to Elands Bay on 10 January 2025, the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Dean Macpherson and Western Cape Minister of Infrastructure Tertuis Simmers outlined various infrastructure opportunities for the area that would greatly benefit its residents. This marks the first time in 28 years that a national minister visits Elands Bay.
Minister Simmers presented the progress made towards unlocking 313 sustainable housing opportunities for the community of Elands Bay, following an engagement with residents and stakeholders in the area.
Minister Simmers said, “Elands Bay matters, and so do its people. We remain fully committed to working closely with the municipality, the community and all stakeholders to unlock housing opportunities that restore dignity and provide certainty for families. Projects like this create jobs and dignified housing opportunities for Western Cape residents.”
During the 2024/25 financial year, the Western Cape Department of Infrastructure (DOI) approved a project and released nearly R560 000 to support the planning phase of a proposed housing development in Elands Bay. This funding was allocated to ensure that the project is properly packaged, assessed and prepared for implementation readiness.
Towards the end of last year, the DOI received a Project Feasibility Report making provision for 313 residential opportunities in Elands Bay. The report is currently undergoing a detailed technical assessment and will, once concluded, be tabled before the Project Assessment Committee for consideration against planning, financial, engineering and implementation criteria.
Looking ahead, more than R1.4 million has been allocated in the 2026/27 financial year to finalise the Project Implementation Readiness Report. This report will confirm whether the project is fully prepared to proceed to implementation and is anticipated to be submitted around the middle of the 2026/27 financial year as part of the Adjustment Budget process.
Subject to the successful completion of these processes, and provided that no significant delays are encountered, construction of services could commence in the 2027/28 financial year, with the possibility of an earlier start should conditions allow.
Minister Simmers said, “Housing delivery starts with proper planning. When we take the time to prepare projects thoroughly, we protect public funds, reduce delays, and ensure that when construction begins, it can proceed without interruption. Our goal is not only to build houses, but to build sustainable, resilient communities that can support growth over the long term.”
The project forms part of the Western Cape Government’s broader commitment to accelerating housing delivery through responsible planning, strong partnerships, and infrastructure-led development.
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