The development of market and trading sites across the city is a key part of the City’s programme to create dignified, business-friendly, and accessible locations that support local entrepreneurs and drive economic opportunities.
Speaking at the site, Mayor Hill-Lewis noted that the development of the market would be a very positive improvement for this community.
‘The Masiphumelele Gateway Market will bring a more dignified and clean trading space for this community and for the informal traders. It will also help spur economic opportunities in the area. We want to be a city known as much for our care and service in communities like Masiphumelele as we are for our global accolades for tourism. I am really excited to see the improvement this project will bring for Masiphumelele and its residents,’ said Mayor Hill-Lewis.
Situated on the busy Kommetjie Road, the market will accommodate some 66 trading opportunities, with the facility set to include trading bays, kiosks, a food preparation area, ablution facilities, an office block, parking and other amenities.
‘These features will ensure a safe, functional and well-operated trading environment for the surrounding community. Our aim is to take into account the particular needs of the traders and consumers who will use the site,’ said Alderman Vos.
The project follows the approval of the Masiphumelele Trading Plan, which went through an extensive public participation period.
‘The Gateway Market is expected to bring positive benefits to the community. These include: providing traders with safe, sheltered and dignified trading spaces, reducing pavement congestion, contributing to public safety, and supporting overall job creation during both the construction and operational phases. Also notable is that members of the local community will be employed for the construction phase,’ said Alderman Vos.
Infrastructure upgrades are part of a raft of support measures from the City for Cape Town’s informal traders. Last year, Council approved a 30% cut in Informal Trading tariffs for the current 2024/2025 financial year.
