Residents of Ghost Town, a Temporary Relocation Area (TRA) at Gate 1 Maitland Cemetery in Cape Town, have raised alarms after two pedestrian-vehicle collisions on Voortrekker Road in two months, citing unsafe conditions at the site. The Kensington Factreton Residents and Ratepayers Association (KFRRA) has demanded urgent action, including a road safety assessment and a pause on permanent development plans.
The TRA, which houses 141 dwellings, became a focal point of contention after 60 families were relocated from the Salt River Market two months ago. The site was handed over for the construction of 970 inner-city affordable housing units by developer Communicare, though a proposed permanent development remains unapproved. Deputy Mayor Eddie Andrews confirmed that access issues have delayed approval for the project.
Why the Concerns Matter
Voortrekker Road, a major arterial route, sees heavy traffic from private vehicles, freight, and public transport. KFRRA’s letter to city officials highlights that residents must cross this road to exit the TRA, creating a “hazardous” situation. Swartz, a KFRRA representative, emphasized that the repeated collisions underscore the risks, noting the proposed permanent housing development has not yet received Municipal Planning Tribunal approval.
The city acknowledges the safety concerns but states it is addressing them through ongoing land use processes. Mayco member for Urban Mobility Rob Quintas mentioned planned upgrades to Voortrekker Road, including pedestrian facilities, starting in the 2026/27 fiscal year.
What Could Happen Next
The city may conduct a road safety assessment of the Gate 1 access point, as requested by KFRRA. If interim safety measures are introduced, they could include traffic calming measures or pedestrian crossings. However, the permanent development’s approval remains contingent on resolving access concerns, which could delay the project further.
KFRRA’s demands for a reassessment of access arrangements and a halt to permanent approvals until safety is ensured could influence the city’s next steps. Meanwhile, the 2026/27 road upgrades may provide long-term relief, but residents are seeking immediate action to prevent further incidents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ghost Town? Ghost Town is a Temporary Relocation Area (TRA) at Gate 1 Maitland Cemetery, housing 141 dwellings. It was established to relocate families from the Salt River Market, with plans for a permanent development paused due to unresolved access issues.
How many families are affected? The TRA currently houses 141 dwellings. Two months ago, 60 additional families were relocated from the Salt River Market. The city’s original approval in May 2025 allowed for up to 105 households in the TRA.
What actions has the city taken? The city has paused the permanent development plan pending access-related issues. It has also confirmed it will address pedestrian safety concerns through ongoing land use processes and planned road upgrades starting in 2026/27.
How might the city balance housing needs with safety demands in Ghost Town?