Service delivery in Ward 62, which includes parts of Constantia and Wynberg, is generally functioning well, according to ward councillor Emile Langenhoven, although challenges such as homelessness and delayed infrastructure projects remain.
Langenhoven rated overall service delivery in the ward at “eight out of 10”, citing well-maintained roads and relatively efficient municipal response times. However, he acknowledged that some road reinstatements still need attention.
Basic services such as electricity, refuse collection, and water provision appear to be stable. The councillor said most electricity outages are resolved within 24 hours, while refuse collection is largely consistent, with only occasional delays. Water and sanitation services have also performed strongly, with infrastructure upgrades exceeding recent municipal targets, he said.
These claims could not be independently verified, and resident experiences may vary.
Ongoing concerns over homelessness
Despite relatively stable service delivery, homelessness remains a visible and complex issue in the ward.
Langenhoven, who chairs a local Homeless Alliance committee, said the group works with organisations, residents, and law enforcement to address the issue. He emphasised a balance between humanitarian support and enforcement.
“While every effort is made to assist people humanely, the law must be used to maintain safety when necessary,” he said.
However, the scale of homelessness in the area, and the effectiveness of current interventions, remains unclear.
Community groups play a role
Community organisations and local partnerships continue to support service delivery efforts.
Wynberg Library runs reading and digital literacy programmes, while the Wynberg Business Forum engages with the City to support local economic activity. Neighbourhood watches, private security, and Metro Police also contribute to safety initiatives alongside the South African Police Service.
Quarterly ward committee meetings provide a platform for residents to raise concerns and influence local planning and budget decisions.
Budget allocation and priorities
The ward has allocated just over R1 million across 13 projects for the current financial year, covering both capital and operational spending.
Capital funding includes upgrades to parks and library resources, while operational spending focuses on cleaning, youth development, surveillance systems, and environmental management.
While the budget targets visible community improvements, its impact will depend on implementation and long-term maintenance.
Delays affect park project
One of the ward’s key projects, Waterloo Green Park near Simon van der Stel Primary School, has faced delays but is now progressing.
The park is expected to provide a safe recreational space for young children. According to Langenhoven, a private donor has offered to fund the relocation of a cable, and additional funding for fencing may be requested from the mayoral fund.
The reasons for earlier delays were not fully detailed.
Looking ahead
The ward’s priorities include maintaining infrastructure, improving cleanliness, and strengthening community involvement.
Langenhoven said collaboration between residents, businesses, and civic groups remains central to progress. However, how these priorities will address ongoing challenges particularly homelessness remains to be seen
Have your say
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