- The most recent application from Melgisedek residents has been dismissed, with costs awarded against them.
- Tshwane is continuing preparations for temporary accommodation for those affected.
- The City says the site may later be used for affordable housing development.
Plans to evict residents from the Melgisedek building in Tshwane have moved a step closer after the Supreme Court of Appeal dismissed the latest application brought on behalf of some residents.
The ruling allows the City of Tshwane to move into the next phase of its Bad Buildings programme. This includes relocating residents to temporary accommodation before tearing down the unsafe structure. The municipality says this intervention is intended to protect those living in the building as well as the wider community.
Unsafe building at the centre of a long legal battle
Melgisedek has become one of Tshwane’s most high-profile bad buildings after years of unlawful occupation and worsening living conditions. The City has repeatedly argued the property is a danger to human life and cannot stay occupied while safety risks continue to increase.
Flora Monama, MMC for Corporate and Shared Services, welcomed the judgment, saying it reinforces the City’s duty to act against dangerous buildings.
“The decision represents an important victory for the rule of law and strengthens the City’s resolve to protect residents from buildings and living spaces that pose a danger to human life,” Monama said.
Relocation comes before demolition
Tshwane says the immediate priority is to make sure affected residents are moved into safe and dignified temporary accommodation before demolition begins.
“Our responsibility is not only to remove people from dangerous living conditions, but also to make sure we handle the process with dignity and care for those affected,” Monama said.
The City says the relocation process is part of its commitment to protecting vulnerable residents while tackling unsafe living conditions across the city.
Affordable housing forms part of the future vision
According to the municipality, Melgisedek is one of several properties targeted in the Bad Buildings programme to reverse urban decay and improve public safety.
Once the unsafe structures have been demolished, Tshwane plans to work with the private sector to explore redevelopment, including affordable housing and other accommodation on the Arcadia site.
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