A proposal to transform a parking lot in Muizenberg into a "Safe Space" shelter for the homeless has ignited controversy among local residents. The initiative, a partnership between the NGO “U-turn” and the City of Cape Town, aims to provide much-needed support for the area's homeless population.

The City of Cape Town has stated that should it decide to lease the land to U-turn, the proposal will be opened for public comment. This development has stirred strong reactions within the community.

U-turn CEO Jean-Ray Knighton Fitt defended the project, emphasizing the importance of such facilities: "U-turn is committed to working closely with the City to provide long-term solutions to homelessness. Our graded approach has helped hundreds of people leave the streets. Access to a safe bed for the night, combined with professional daytime interventions, accelerates individuals' readiness to join structured programmes like U-turn's Life Change Journey, which includes rehabilitation, therapy, skills development, and practical work experience. The parking lot is currently an eyesore, and U-turn will ensure that its new Safe Space building enhances the look and safety of the area."

He highlighted the lack of accessible safe spaces in Muizenberg, where many homeless individuals occupy public spaces and bridges to stay close to their income-generating activities.

However, the proposal has met resistance from local residents and business owners. Simon Roberts, chair of the Muizenberg Improvement District (MID), voiced significant concerns: "There is a legitimate objection from the Muizenberg property and business owners. The proposed location in our beachfront CBD could severely impact tourism and businesses, undermining years of urban renewal efforts by the MID and both private and public sectors. This is the last available A-grade erf that can enhance our area."

Roberts noted that for over a decade, there have been calls for the space to be commercialized. He expressed skepticism about the public participation process, suggesting it might be merely procedural, and that the council seemed deaf to their proposals.

The City of Cape Town has announced a R4 million grant from the Mayoral Fund to kickstart the Muizenberg Safe Space, with additional private donor funding ensuring operations for the first three years. The site, located on Sidmouth Road near Surfers Corner beach, was previously under the Department of Safety and Security but has not been used for municipal purposes.

The City clarified that public comment would follow if it agreed to U-turn's application to lease the site, maintaining its commitment to engaging with community feedback on the project.

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