The City of Cape Town officially unveiled the upgraded Atlantis Business Hives last week. The event was presided over by Alderman James Vos, the mayoral committee member for economic growth, who emphasised the City’s commitment to creating a safe and dignified environment for traders.
The revamped Atlantis Business Hives now offer a range of units catering to traders dealing in various goods and services, from haircare and hardware to clothing, textiles, food, financial services and funeral services. The upgrade also includes essential amenities such as parking facilities, clean ablutions, robust security measures and regular cleaning services.
Alderman Vos, addressing the community traders gathered at the launch, highlighted the City’s ongoing efforts to understand and meet the needs of traders.
‘These upgraded facilities reflect our dedication as a City to provide traders with dignified, safe and clean trading conditions,’ he remarked, underlining the City’s commitment to support the local business community.
The Atlantis facility upgrade is part of a broader initiative by the City to enhance informal trading spaces across the metropolitan area. The City has allocated a budget of R184 million over the next three years for similar upgrades and improvements to other trading sites.
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Furthermore, numerous projects are already underway or set to commence in the coming weeks, encompassing both the revitalisation of existing sites in areas like Athlone, Blue Downs and Philippi, as well as the creation of new trading opportunities in communities, including Somerset West, Masiphumelele and Pelican Park.
Alderman Vos expressed enthusiasm for the possibilities these initiatives will bring to local traders and the rejuvenation of under-utilised areas.
‘These new sites will open up fresh opportunities for local traders and breathe new life into neglected spaces,’ he stated.
For example, in Wallacedene, the City plans to construct a container trading market on a site currently plagued by illegal dumping.
Beyond infrastructure enhancements, the City is actively involved in equipping traders and emerging entrepreneurs with valuable skills through various development programmes. These programmes cover a wide range of topics, including how to do business with the City, product development and digital marketing.
Alderman Vos concluded his address by extending gratitude to the local traders and community members present at the launch event.
‘Thank you for being here today and for being business leaders in Atlantis and the greater city. You have all made a difference to Cape Town’s economic landscape, and you will all help us reach a better tomorrow,’ he acknowledged.
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Picture: City of Cape Town / Facebook