South Africa’s mega housing project Aloe Ridge development in Westgate Grange has been opened with analysts counting on it to provide housing for low income earners.
The Aloe Ridge project was the brainchild of non-profit organisation, Msunduzi Housing Association (MHA), and construction began in November 2014 in an effort to provide much-needed reasonably-priced rental accommodation for the lower to middle-income earners in the area.
The $25.76-m project has received funding from the Social Housing Regulatory Authority, KwaZulu- Natal Department of Human Settlements, National Housing Finance Corporation as well as Msunduzi Housing Association and aims to house about 4,000 people.
Aloe Ridge comprises 952 two-bedroom apartments in three-storey walk-ups, separated into two villages. Of these, 287 will cater for households earning up to $255.5 per month and 665 units will cater for households earning up to $547.5 per month.
Each unit is approximately 45 m2 and the 14-Ha site allows for large, open spaces and play areas for children. Ivor Caldecott, CEO of MHA says the projected date of completion is end of May this year.
Aloe Ridge will create 500 jobs for unskilled labourers during the construction phase, as well as full-time, permanent employment for six general workers, six cleaners, six security guards, a housing supervisor, two letting agents and one rental administration position upon completion.
