The eviction operation at the Green Point tennis court, led by the Western Cape High Court sheriff, marked a significant move in the ongoing efforts to manage public spaces within the city.
Watch: Cape Town sheriff evicts Green Point tennis court occupiers
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After obtaining an eviction order from the Western Cape High Court, officials moved to dismantle and remove structures occupied by homeless individuals, on Thursday.
Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, announced that a comprehensive law enforcement deployment plan was in effect to secure the property and prevent future occupations.
This decisive action comes on the heels of an agreement reached with the majority of the occupiers who demonstrated a willingness to accept offers of shelter and social assistance after a series of discussions held two weeks ago.
What options do the homeless have?
Following the eviction, the City of Cape Town has put forward several options for the displaced individuals.
A considerable number of the former Green Point tennis court occupants have accepted either dignified transitional shelter or emergency housing kits, which can be erected on land with the landowner’s permission.
Parallel to the situation at the Green Point tennis court, the City of Cape Town is engaged in a broader legal effort to manage homeless encampments throughout the CBD.
Locations such as Buitengracht Street and FW De Klerk Boulevard, among others, are part of a comprehensive plan to ensure public spaces remain open and accessible to all citizens.
The City awaits a crucial High Court decision regarding a final eviction order for these areas.
Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis emphasised the importance of public spaces being available for everyone.
“No person has the right to reserve a public space as exclusively theirs, while indefinitely refusing all offers of shelter and social assistance,” the mayor said
