990 new housing units launched in Midrand for low to middle-income earners

By Thapelo Molefe

Human Settlements Minister Thembi Simelane on Tuesday launched the Grand Central Social Housing Project in Midrand, delivering affordable units for low to middle-income earners while creating jobs and advancing inclusive urban development.

The housing project, which was launched in June 2022 and completed in December 2023, consists of 990 units designed for individuals earning between R1,820 and R22,000 per month.

Simelane, who handed over the keys to several new beneficiaries, was joined by Gauteng Human Settlements MEC Tasneem Motara at the launch.

Speaking to reporters at the launch, Simelane said the project was critical in bridging the housing gap for individuals earning too much to qualify for Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP) housing, yet unable to secure home loans.

“If you drive around, you see RDPs are being demolished, People are building for themselves, it means that an era for that housing policy now needs to focus on the vulnerable groups of people living with disabilities who are unable to make ends meet or child-headed households and a category of the elderly who are unable to have their own houses,” Simelane told reporters.

She said the Grand Central Housing Towers Project not only addresses housing needs but also created 150 job opportunities, prioritising inclusion with roles for black women, youth, men, and people with disabilities.

Additionally, 49 Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) subcontractors were involved in the project.

The development, said Simelane, was strategically positioned near employment hubs, transport links, and essential amenities, reflecting the government’s commitment to urban restructuring and sustainable human settlements.

Tenants at Grand Central expressed satisfaction with the quality and convenience of the housing complex.

Disabled tenant Thabo Mashaba noted that the facilities are disabled-friendly since all amenities are close by.

“It’s home away from home. The complex is wheelchair-friendly, and everything is just