The national government which owns the land has finally chosen to cooperate with City authorities after a ruling by the Western Cape High Court
The iconic Castle of Good Hope in Cape Town’s central business district is about to realise a long-awaited eviction plan as the National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPW) seeks to remove squatters who have encamped around the historic site.
The squatters have been supported by foreign-funded activist group SERI, who have used legal action to prevent the people being rehoused, and coordinated with squatters to prolong the siege of the historic landmark by encouraging them to refuse social housing, and to hold out for grander accommodation.
The Castle of Good Hope, a 358-year-old National Heritage site, has been occupied by about 20 people living in tents and makeshift shelters for nearly three years. The occupation has raised safety and security concerns, prompting inclusion in last year’s tourism security plans by the Department of Tourism.
The national government, which owns the land on which the squatters are encamped, has until now refused to process the eviction requested of them by the City. But a recent ruling by the Western Cape High Court has confirmed that they can in fact be legally evicted from their illegal occupation.
DPW spokesperson Thami Mchunu announced that court papers for the eviction were filed last week. The department is pursuing a special service date on July 31, 2024, to have the documents translated into Afrikaans and isiXhosa, and to inform the occupiers through public announcements by the Sheriff of the Court. The eviction application will be heard in court on September 17.
Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis expressed relief and support for the eviction: “This is a long-standing issue since the unlawful occupation began during the national lockdown. It is crucial to restore this public place for its tourism and economic importance, and to help the occupants access social assistance for their dignity, health, and well-being.”
Hill-Lewis emphasized that no one has the right to claim a public space indefinitely while refusing shelter and social aid.
Offers of transitional shelter at City Safe Spaces and NGO-run night shelters remain available as the eviction process progresses.
