Shelley Road tenants may qualify for transfer or discounted sale of units

15 July 2024

The City of Cape Town is in the process of assessing whether occupants of the nine Shelley Road residences in Salt River qualify for property transfers under Human Settlements legislation and policy. Any decision on the release or sale of the properties requires a public participation process and Council approval, and may include transfer to the current residents. 

Historically, these properties were retained within the municipal portfolio to potentially expand adjacent Public Open Space. These are market-related rental properties distinct from Council rental stock and are no longer required for municipal purposes.

The City's goal is to fully explore the available means to enable current occupants to possibly become lawful owners of these residences. Should occupants not qualify, the City will explore whether they may be offered the option to purchase at below market rates subject to the necessary approvals, including by the City Council. Some media reports have not taken these important facts into account about the due process being followed under the law. Urgent clarity is being provided to the occupants of Shelley Road, given the uncertainty surrounding the City's legal processes. The City will do everything within legal bounds to assist occupants in potentially owning these units. 

The City's Housing Needs Register team will provide assistance to the occupants to determine if they qualify for transfer of ownership under Human Settlements legislation. 

Reference to 'viewings' in initial notices to occupants refers to municipal officials needing to access the properties as part of the due process for land release, which may include transfer to all qualifying occupants. The City regrets any misinterpretation in this regard and is sending a further clarifying notice to occupants.

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Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office