The City of Cape Town is committed to giving previously disadvantaged communities more meaningful access to coastal spaces that are suitable for the development of residential, commercial and recreational facilities. The Strandfontein resort area on the False Bay coastline has been identified for possible development. We are calling on residents and local communities in particular, to comment on the draft development framework for this future Strandfontein urban node. Once approved, this framework will be used to direct future decision making about the development of this node, including the existing pavilion area, resort, and surrounds.
‘Cape Town is South Africa’s largest coastal metro with more than 300km of coastline. Due to apartheid spatial planning the majority of Capetonions have been excluded from owning properties – be it houses or businesses – along our beautiful coastline. Unfortunately, this stark reality is still with us today. The release of the draft development framework for the Strandfontein coastal urban node confirms the City’s commitment to addressing this unjust legacy. The draft framework is now available for residents’ input. It proposes a mix of development in an environmentally responsible way so that those in close proximity to this area can benefit from future growth and investment,’ said the City’s Deputy Mayor and Mayoral Committee Member for Spatial Planning and Environment, Alderman Eddie Andrews.
The draft development framework is informed by a study that was completed in June this year, with the primary focus area being the Strandfontein pavilion, located at the intersection of Strandfontein Road and Baden Powell Drive.
The study investigated four possible development scenarios and finally proposes a hybrid option which combines the elements of an ocean economy, recreation, housing and educational facilities.
As such, the draft development framework that is now available for public comment, proposes a scenario where the Strandfontein coastal urban node is used year-round, and not only in season. This could be achieved through an integrated mixed use development that combines recreation, housing, and retail opportunities.
The draft development framework for the Strandfontein node proposes:
A development consisting of residential and retail opportunities, including possibly conference and hotel facilities
Recreational facilities inclusive of a picnic area and walkways, and terraces
A public space for hosting markets
To rehabilitate the natural environment through stabilising the dune area, reinstating the riverbed and raising of the tidal pool wall
The above will require the demolition of the western part of the pavilion and upgrade of the pool and terrace areas, environmental authorisations and rezoning of land for development by the private sector.
‘This is an exciting proposal which capitalises and builds on the unique location Strandfontein offers. Set in a vast landscape with wide-angled views of False Bay, the distant mountains and sand dunes, the possibilities are endless. By re-imagining this node, we can see opportunities expanding beyond recreation only, such as housing and retail, while also protecting the sensitive marine and natural environment.
‘The draft framework strives to ensure public access, maximise recreation, leverage economic opportunities, ensure safety and security, financial sustainability and ecological sustainability. Strandfontein has the potential to be an iconic destination.
‘Still, this framework is only a proposal. We are now asking for residents’ input and stakeholders’ comment so that we can refine the draft into a final proposal that addresses the community’s needs and aspirations. Thereafter the necessary statutory processes for the land use and environmental applications can be initiated and development partners sourced. I encourage all to please read the draft framework and use the opportunity to be heard. We are interested in your views, and further proposals,’ said Alderman Andrews.
Comment as follows:
The draft framework is available on the City’s website
The closing date for comments is 14 December 2022
Send an email to Strandfontein.coastalnode@capetown.gov.za
Attend the public information day
The City is also hosting a public information day where the public can submit their comments, and ask questions for clarity:
30 November 2022
From 19:00 to 21:00
At the Strandfontein community hall
Source: City Of Cape Town