R3.9-billion expansion of V&A Waterfront’s Canal District approved

The City of Cape Town has officially given the go-ahead for the construction and development of the V&A Waterfront’s Canal Precinct Plan which will result in a boost towards job creation in Cape Town. 

The development aims to build a number of mixed-use structures and create at least 1100 jobs during the construction phase

Dan Plato, the COCT’s Executive Mayor points out that the launch of the development aims to bolster economic growth and foster job creation in the Mother City. 

“While the national lockdown had a major impact on cities across the world in 2020, the City of Cape Town is fully committed to doing everything we can to make sure our local economy bounces back even stronger than before. With these major infrastructure developments and the huge job creation opportunities it delivers, it is clear that investors – both local and international – have confidence in doing business in our city and this will offer significant benefit to our residents.”

Features of the development

According to the COCT, the development valued at R3.9-billion will have the following key features: 

•  The 10,5 hectare Canal District includes expansion projects on either side of Dock Road and surrounding the existing Battery Park Development. The District provides the first point of contact for visitors entering the V&A Waterfront from the city, creating a seamless link to Dock Road in the Waterfront from the CBD.
• Building height in certain parts of the extension east of Dock Road will be limited to 60 meters – this is considered appropriate sensible planning to increase floor space, given its location in the City Foreshore area, where a number of the tallest buildings are located.

Plato points out that all approval and appeal processes will have to be undergone to ensure that the development in compliant. 

“The Municipal Planning Tribunal heard oral representations regarding the original application and amendments were incorporated. The development will be required to demonstrate compliance with the City’s Tall Building Policy and mitigate any impact on surrounding buildings in the precinct.”

According to reports, the City’s Integrated Development Plan (IDP) and, the Municipal Spatial Development Framework (MSDF) promotes the building of an inclusive, integrated and vibrant City to manage urban growth in a balanced and responsible manner while improving access to economic opportunities.

“Having considered all relevant legislation, development frameworks, and guidelines, this development is not only beneficial for economic recovery and job creation, but it is also one of the key nodes within the city. The V&A Waterfront is identified as a location that will remain an attractive destination for locals and international, visitors for decades to come. Significant and sustained investment by the private sector facilitated by the City of Cape Town will ensure the long-term sustainability of Cape Town. The concept is, therefore, approved,” concludes Plato.

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Featured image: Shashank Kumar via Unsplash