Eviction uncertainty looms for city residents

FAMILIES living at Irene Grootboom House in central Cape Town are once again facing uncertainty after an urgent eviction case brought against them by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure was postponed for the second time.

- MANDILAKHE TSHWETE

The case, which was meant to be heard in the Western Cape High Court this week, was delayed to July 29, 2025 following a request by the department.

The wait continues for the more than 30 residents of the state-owned building at 104 Darling Street, some of whom have lived there for over 20 years.

A resident, who asked not to be named, said: “We were ready for court. Now we're told we must wait again. We've lived here since before many of our children were born.”

Legal representatives from the Ndifuna Ukwazi Law Centre, acting on behalf of the residents, confirmed that the postponement was agreed to by all parties to allow time for the department and the City of Cape Town to discuss possible emergency housing options, should eviction be granted.