- The local subcouncil has proposed transforming two buildings on Victoria Street into a safe space for the homeless, pending approval by the City of Cape Town.
- This initiative, led by Ward 15 councillor Gregory Peck, aims to repurpose the Somerset West Driving Licence Testing Centre and Tereo Community School buildings for holistic rehabilitation, addressing social factors like substance abuse and mental health issues.
- The proposal has garnered support from community leaders and organizations, emphasizing the urgent need for such a facility to reduce homelessness and crime.
The local subcouncil has submitted a motion to transform two buildings on Victoria Street into a safe space for the homeless, pending approval by the City of Cape Town.
The proposal aims to repurpose the Somerset West Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC) and Tereo Community School buildings for the “holistic rehabilitation” of street people. This initiative, led by Ward 15 councillor Gregory Peck through Subcouncil 8, follows a street-people workshop held in August.
The public was informed about the proposal in a September edition of the Ward 15 newsletter, which also mentioned a follow-up workshop in November to consolidate decisions and plan cooperation among organisations as well as municipal and provincial departments working with street people.
Proposed safe space
On further enquiry, Peck expressed hopes for the motion’s swift approval and implementation to counter homelessness and reduce crime. The proposed safe space was prompted by the workshop at Life Church on Tuesday 27 August, which highlighted the need to address social factors contributing to homelessness, such as substance abuse and mental health issues. The workshop also identified a lack of shelter space, especially subsidised shelters for families, and the need for assessment centres to monitor progress.
Peck aims to replicate successful models like the Culemborg and Bellville safe spaces, aligning with community organisations, mobilising resources and focusing on a system offering comprehensive support to rehabilitate the homeless. “With facilities such as the Somerset West Night Shelter and Family Shelter at full capacity, the need for a safe space is urgent,” said Peck.
“At the proposed safe space, social workers will guide street people, offering training sessions to help them learn skills and earn opportunities. It’s not just housing; it’s about restoring dignity and providing a path to a better life.”
Concerns addressed
Peck addressed concerns about using the two buildings, explaining that the realignment of the N2 highway and the relocation of the testing centre and school will leave the buildings vacant. These are not in a residential area and be used instead of being demolished.
The site will be isolated from residential areas by the new highway, Victoria Street, canals, and an electric substation, and will be managed by staff, including social workers.
Peck emphasised that most street people are battling mental health, addiction problems and poverty. “We can reduce the number of people living on the street with good planning and a place for rehabilitation. This requires getting them off the street, rehabilitated, employed through training, and back to functioning in society. The story changes when they are offered shelter and meals.”
The next step is for the motion to go through City departments to determine if they have any use for the buildings. If not, the Property Directorate will assess costs for the budget allocation process to start. Peck has prioritised getting community organisations, neighbourhood watches and churches to collaborate for the safe space.
Repurposing city buildings
Ward 83 councillor Carl Punt expressed his support for the proposal of a “safe space” for street people to have a central place where they can sleep in safety with the necessary facilities and services offered from relevant organisations and social services. “The idea to use the test centre and school buildings for such a possible safe haven for homeless people is a proposal that should be investigated, as it is centrally located and because the need in the Helderberg for this service is growing,” he said.
Estelle Joubert, principal of Tereo Community School, confirmed the imminent relocation of the school, which celebrates its silver jubilee this year. She divulged that an alternative property has been purchased, and the school is awaiting zoning permits, with a view to moving from the current school building, occupied since 1999, next year.
Joubert confirmed she is aware of the motion and possible fate of the City-owned buildings considering the highway’s realignment, a matter that is sparking debate among community members – some advocating for demolition to prevent potential hazards, while others suggest repurposing the buildings to provide safe spaces for people in need, particularly those without homes.
“If managed effectively, I am in support of the buildings being used constructively,” said Joubert, highlighting the facilities available in the current location, such as classrooms, bathrooms and a kitchen. “If not, where else would the homeless go?”
Services for drivers
The Somerset West DLTC closed due to storm damage in April and has been operational since Saturday 5 October. However, the facility has moved to a temporary location at the Strand Municipal Building, on the corner of Main and Fagan streets.
Residents can apply for learner and driving license tests, renew drivers’ licenses, submit PRDP applications, and collect licence cards at the new facility.
The test track at Somerset West DLTC is still used for Code B and motorcycle driving tests. The operating hours are from 08:00 to 15:30 on weekdays, and 08:00 to 11:00 on Saturdays.
