Is 'breaking new ground' as a comprehensive plan for housing delivery, a realistic solution to the housing problem faced in South Africa?

Abstract

The national goal, to provide housing opportunities for all South Africans, and to eradicate informal settlements by the year 2014, is a noble one worthy of rallied support by all who can contribute. Breaking new ground as a comprehensive plan for the development of sustainable human settlements has sought to ensure that every South African is granted a housing opportunity along with exposure to economic and social opportunities, and this is to be achieved before the year 2014. Extensive literary studies have been carried out revealing the extent of the task, as well as the aspects pertaining to the provision of services and equality of living standards. There are a vast number of recognised barriers standing in the way of delivery, as well as unforeseen hindrances to achieving this goal. The results obtained led to the conclusion that the Breaking New Ground policy is achieving their goal in as much as housing is being delivered, but not at the delivery rates required in order to achieve what has been set out.