tHe is taking the pace of Belleville's revitalization, taking the form of the opening of Sanlum City Gardens this week at the corner of Bill Bezidenhout and Strand Street.
James Foss' mayoral committee members said the project is part of a broader effort to unlock the economic potential of major districts through targeted urban intervention.
The garden was developed through a partnership with Sunlam and coincides with a larger movement. Belleville. together. – City fundraising for urban professionals, an initiative to create a joint location in Belleville, supported by the Greater Tigerberg Partnership (GTP).
“Placemaking is one of the pillars of our urban strategy to stimulate employment, investment and corporate development. We purposefully support projects that create locations through GTP to transform well-utilized spaces into lively functional locations that attract pedestrians, promoting business activities and building community pride. These projects are designed not only to beautiful public areas, but to turn them into engines of economic opportunities,” says Alderman Vos.
Research shows that green spaces benefit the surrounding communities by reducing stress, promoting a more active lifestyle and improving overall mental health. Further findings show that the presence of natural beauty promotes community connection and neighborhood satisfaction.
“When people feel connected to the place, they stay longer, spend more and support local businesses, and that's the outcome we're working on,” said Alderman Vos.
“We are about to witness another physical transformation. This new garden forms part of the growing network of Belleville public gardens. All of these changes are possible through public-private partnerships and strategic placement of public spaces, breathing new lives in Belleville and reflecting the true spirit of the community.
“As a private company, Sunlam shows its pride by helping to revitalize and bliss the region. The more businesses care for and invest in the 'frontstope' by supporting infrastructure and public space upgrades, the more visible improvements, the broader community uplift, the stronger local economy, and ultimately the creation of jobs.”
'Belville has been identified as a key urban node in the city's development vision, and work carried out on the ground will help relocate the area as a thriving and multi-use district. The goal is to build blocks with momentum per block and space. There are interventions that bring life to the neglected corners of the city.
“These types of projects are at the heart of our economic growth mission. They support job creation, stimulate businesses, develop a sense of place and lay the foundation for a more inclusive and opportunity-rich Cape Town,” said Alderman Vos.
More about Tygerberg Partnership (GTP)
The Greater Tygerberg Partnership is a development facilitation agency responsible for the obligation to unlock Belleville's potential as a sustainable, prosperous, and inclusive African city.
Founded in 2012 as an independent nonprofit company, Greater Tygerberg Partnership (GTP) is mandated to promote and accelerate revitalization and uplifting in Belleville and its surrounding area, promoting a thriving and attractive commercial centre for business owners, and a future as a vibrant, inclusive, safe and modern hub.
