"Knysna officials inspired by UK housing study tour
Katherine Wilkinson GARDEN ROUTE CORRESPONDENT
AN international study tour and conference attended by Knysna municipal officials provided new insights on housing options, says Knysna mayor Eleanore Bouw-Spies.
“The differences in housing processes are huge, but we can take many of the principles back to South Africa and make them our own,” she said.
The group, including Andrew Finn, the Knysna portfolio chairman of infrastructure development and integrated human settlements, attended a housing study tour and conference in the United Kingdom.
Knysna community services and housing director Lauren Waring said: “The range of tenure options, housing typologies and funding sources are quite remarkable. I have been inspired by the comprehensive integrated approach to housing, and the recognition of the social role and impact of housing.”
The trip, from February 28 to March 13, also included meetings with politicians and potential developers in the Republic of Ireland and in Germany.
The busy schedule also included visits to public parks and other community facilities, a housing initiative for young adults with no families, alternative building systems including pre-manufactured units, waste management and recycling, a rehabilitation centre, and meetings with potential investors."