Planning for the upgrading of informal settlements is still a relatively unknown field for planners in South Africa and it is certain to receive more attention in future. The role of the upgrading of informal settlements in providing low income housing will be discussed, as well as certain factors that play an important role in planning projects of this kind. A "strategy", involving certain alternative solutions available to the planner in the field, will then be put forward. Findings from a study done in Joe Slovo Square, Bloemfontein, will be used to illustrate the article
