Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis is steadfast in his ambition to convert underutilised military bases into affordable housing. With support from his Democratic Alliance (DA) colleagues in national positions, there is cautious optimism that his vision could become a reality.

The Mayor's strategy hinges on the release of vast tracts of state-owned land, currently occupied by military installations, to address the city's severe housing shortage. Hill-Lewis has identified several key sites, including the expansive Wingfield, Youngsfield, and Wynberg military bases, as well as the parliamentary village in Goodwood. These properties, owned by the national government, represent prime real estate that could yield thousands of affordable housing units.

“Our city still bears the spatial scars of apartheid,” Hill-Lewis remarked. “One of the most effective ways to dismantle this legacy is to develop affordable social housing in well-located areas, facilitated by the private sector.”

The Mayor's proposal underscores the potential of affordable rental units near economic hubs and transport corridors to significantly improve residents' lives. His comprehensive plan includes accelerated land release and strategic use of municipal properties to foster affordable housing development.

“These mega-properties, currently underutilised, could create up to 100,000 affordable housing opportunities,” Hill-Lewis stated. “In a city with such a pressing need, there must be a way to make this happen.”

Previous appeals to national ministers have gone unanswered, but Hill-Lewis remains hopeful. The recent appointment of DA member Dean McPherson as Public Works Minister presents a renewed opportunity for dialogue. Preliminary discussions with McPherson have already begun, suggesting a more collaborative approach moving forward.

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Foreign-funded pro-land-invasion activists like Ndifuna Ukwazi and the Development Action Group, have also called for the release of military land for housing. They argue that properties like Wingfield and Ysterplaat, adjacent to Century City, are ideally located for such developments, offering proximity to economic nodes, schools, and public transport.

“These sites are within a 10km radius of Cape Town's CBD and close to major transport routes and services,” the groups noted. “Their geographical advantages make them perfect for affordable housing.”

The push for repurposing these military sites aligns with broader urban development goals identified by the City and the provincial government, highlighting the strategic importance of these locations.

Despite previous setbacks, including a dismissive response from former Public Works Minister Patricia de Lille, Hill-Lewis is now better positioned to advance his agenda. The support from his party's national representatives could prove crucial in overcoming bureaucratic hurdles and turning these military bases into thriving residential communities.

As Cape Town grapples with housing shortages and urban sprawl, the success of this initiative could set a precedent for using public land to address social needs, fostering a more inclusive and equitable cityscape.

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