In a move aimed at addressing Cape Town’s housing crisis and burgeoning population, developers have unveiled plans for a transformative urban development, named the Milkwood City project, reports Cape {town} Etc.
Located approximately 35 kilometres from Cape Town’s city centre, Milkwood City is set to rise within the Western Growth Corridor – an area that is not included in the City’s medium-term plans for possible future development.
The proposed city will span 3 100 hectares along the N7 National Highway and aims to accommodate nearly one million residents over the next decade, offering a wide range of housing, educational and employment opportunities.
This long-anticipated project, initially referred to as West Cape, is characterised by its vision of creating a modern, integrated, and inclusive mixed-use urban space.
According to the project’s website, Milkwood City is designed to capture and celebrate the rich multicultural heritage of the Cape region, making it a potential beacon of community spirit and economic revitalisation.
Highlights of the Milkwood City project include:
- Over 200 000 housing units to provide refuge for first-time homeowners and affordable rental options.
- The creation of more than 200 000 permanent jobs, stimulating local and foreign investment.
- Development of over 400 schools and a university, ensuring educational accessibility for all residents.
- A construction sector stimulus estimated at R200 billion, contributing to a total economic boost of over R400 billion.
- A self-sustaining community equipped with necessary facilities, utilities, and public transport infrastructure for a comfortable lifestyle.
Despite the glowing prospects, Milkwood City faces significant hurdles. Past discussions have stuttered due to the project’s hefty price tag, with costs projected to exceed R400 billion, alongside a myriad of legal obstacles that have stalled progress.
Yet, as Cape Town grapples with a rapidly increasing population and a dire housing shortage, many experts and community advocates argue that the revival of plans for Milkwood City may be more critical now than ever.
Pioneering sustainability, the project incorporates innovative models such as RegenAfrica’s Regenerative SMARTER Builds (RSBs) and communiTgrow Africa’s 6-Pillar Model of an integrated urban economy.
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Cape Town calls for public input on Green Point mixed-use development
Picture: Milkwood City Project
