Shoprite-Checkers has applied to develop part of the old "Dump Site" - erven 1307/8 Constantia - on the corner of Ladies Mile and Spaanschemat River Road. While most residents are happy that the land restitution has been successful, many are disappointed to see the development of the site falling to a supermarket. The City of Cape Town’s Southern District Spatial Development Plan, approved in 2012, has identified the site for “New Urban Infill” and for “Potential Medium-Density Development” and “Inclusionary Housing”, which caters for a wider range of income groups. It would be a good opportunity to develop the area for housing in a manner that would draw attention to its pre- and post-apartheid history - and there is plenty! People have had an opportunity to comment, and one can hope that their comments will be taken into consideration when the final decision is taken.Read the Barbarossa Residents Group letter to Mr Evard, Senior Professional Officer: Planning and Building Development Management, City of Cape Town here.
Another good article to read about why another shopping centre would not be appropriate or desirable can be found on the Constantia Ratepayers and Resident's Association here.
