The City of Cape Town’s Transport and Urban Development Authority (TDA) has announced plans to develop two major infrastructure projects that will transform Dunoon into a well-developed neighbourhood where residents will have access to a first-class public transport facility and formal housing opportunities.

The City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Transport and Urban Development, Brett Herron says, he believes that the two infrastructure projects have the potential to turn Dunoon into well-developed neighbourhood, and that residents from Dunoon will reap the fruits of our investment for years to come.

The developments involve the upgrade of the minibus-taxi facility and the construction of a new neighbourhood opposite from Dunoon. According to Herron the City will commence with the upgrade of the minibus-taxi facility in the next few months if all goes according to plan.

A public transport interchange

The upgrade, which will cost over R42 million, involves convert the minibus-taxi facility into a public transport interchange with covered walkways for commuters, a covered area from where the taxis will operate, an office building for meetings, shops, waiting areas, ablution facilities, and refuse storage.

“We expect that the new public transport hub will be fully operational within the next two years. Once completed, residents from Dunoon will have access to a first-class facility which will make their commuting experience more convenient.

An integrated human settlement development

“As for the new neighbourhood which we intend to establish across from Dunoon, work is under way to prepare the land for an integrated human settlement development,” says Herron.

Herron notes that the new neighbourhood will feature housing opportunities supported by a range of community facilities and amenities. “The development will include State-subsidised Breaking New Ground houses, and sites for retail- and light industrial uses will be considered during the planning process so that those living in the area will have access to job opportunities.”

The City has secured the funding and budget for a professional team to design and plan the proposed development. If all goes as planned, the professional team should be appointed within the next four months.