Informal backyard housing development at a crossroads

Abstract

Townships in Gauteng and the Western Cape are abuzz with construction activity as homeowners respond to the need for housing by building and upgrading backyard rental units. This trend has the potential to improve living standards in townships and make cities more compact, integrated and efficient. A recent gathering of public- and private sector representatives agreed that the government needs to support individuals by simplifying the building process and drawing investment into townships and informal settlements.