The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) yesterday (27 May 2026) called on the City of Cape Town Council to ensure that residents’ rights, particularly their right to peace and safety in their living areas, are protected and prioritised, while still allowing for economic growth.
This follows residents and businessowners, primarily from the Bo-Kaap, expressing serious concerns during a recent public participation process about how their right to live in a safe, clean and peaceful environment is being undermined.
They are not satisfied with developments taking place in certain areas, as they are to the detriment of existing residents and businessowners.
The participation process followed the Metro releasing its informal trading plans for Greenmarket Square, St George’s Mall, the Company’s Garden, Cape Town’s Civic Centre, the Bo-Kaap and numerous other earmarked locations.
Residents pointed out that the current management of these areas has failed and they cannot see how the proposed changes will improve the situation.
Residents from the Bo-Kaap, among others, reported that the influx of tourists to these areas often hinders them from exiting their own front doors.
They feel it demonstrates callous disregard for their religion and culture, while crime and anti-social behaviour are on the rise.
During the meeting, the Freedom Front Plus requested improved governance by the city authorities through the establishment of dedicated management teams for important informal trading areas, especially in culturally and residentially sensitive areas such as the Bo-Kaap and Greenmarket Square.
The party further requested that the City review its trading plans, particularly for areas such as the Bo-Kaap, and that community participation and cultural preservation be prioritised.
In addition, enforcing measures for improved infrastructure and waste management systems is essential for all informal trading zones.
The City should adopt a more strategic, data-driven approach to identifying informal trading locations, balancing economic viability for traders and preventing traffic congestion.
The living conditions of residents in the affected areas should be taken into account when decisions are made and development takes place.
The Freedom Front Plus will keep a close eye on the implementation of the City of Cape Town’s plans to ensure that neither human rights nor residents’ privacy is violated.
Freedom Front Plus Sports Development: The FF Plus supports sports development programs in schools.
Spunky Comet
Do not argue with a fool because he will drag you down to his level and then beat you with experience.
flint
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