In a bid to create a sustainable development, an Urban Renewal Programme was launched by former President Mbeki in February 2001. The programme is the responsibility of the Department of Local Government and Housing, and targets eight urban nodal points across the country, which are characterised by poverty, backlogs in basic services, low levels of private and public investment, and high crime and unemployment.
The idea behind the programme is to develop an integrated and sustainable approach to developing these areas, and to draw together different government departments and spheres of government (national, provincial and local) to tackle problems in a co-ordinated way. The programme also aims to attract private investors into the areas, to create jobs and provide services.
The URP’s specific objectives are to:
• promote local economic development to relieve poverty and unemployment
• provide a safe and secure environment by fighting crime
• support education, training and skills development
• create a quality urban environment where people can live with dignity and pride
• develop efficient, integrated and user-friendly transport systems
• create job opportunities through the Extended Public Works Programme (EPWP)
Typical projects undertaken through this programme includes schools refurbishment, roads construction, backyard rental accommodation, skills and development centres for local communities. The department is currently implementing URP projects in Alexandra, Bekkersdal and Evaton.
Issued by: Department of Housing, Gauteng Provincial Government
19 June 2009
Source: Department of Housing, Gauteng Provincial Government (http://www.housing.gpg.gov.za/)
