New promenade, tidal pools planned in V&A Waterfront upgrade [pics]

Cape Town’s iconic V&A Waterfront could soon look very different, with plans revealed for a major coastal expansion that includes a new promenade, tidal pools and public open spaces.

The project centres on reclaiming nearly four hectares of land from the sea near Granger Bay, just north of the existing precinct.

Tidal pools and beaches

Early concept images offer a glimpse of landscaped walkways, swimming areas and new shoreline access designed to bring visitors closer to the ocean.

According to project details, the reclaimed area will make space for a coastal public walkway, tidal pools, pedestrian paths and open recreational areas.

A small harbour for boating, kayaking and swimming is also proposed.

The expansion forms part of a wider upgrade expected to reshape the northern edge of the Waterfront. Plans also include mixed-use development featuring residential, hotel, leisure and commercial spaces.

Before construction can move ahead, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has opened a public consultation process.

Residents and interested parties are invited to comment on the proposal as part of the environmental approval process.

Reclaiming land – an environmental matter

In simple terms, land reclamation means creating new land by filling sections of shallow seabed with rock and sand. The Department says the application must first receive in-principle approval from the Minister following public input.

Parliament must then ratify that decision before the Waterfront project can proceed further.

Even if pre-approval is granted, the development will still need full environmental authorisation. If either Parliament or environmental regulators reject the application, the reclamation cannot go ahead.

A protective seawall

Early marine works have already begun under what developers call “phase zero.” This includes plans for a 540-metre seawall and breakwaters extending into Table Bay, aimed at coastal protection and calmer water conditions.

The broader expansion, backed by the V&A Waterfront’s owners Growthpoint and the Government Employees Pension Fund, is expected to represent a multibillion-rand investment and could create thousands of construction and long-term jobs.

Public comments on the reclamation proposal are open for 30 days following the official notice.