- Rondebosch is poised for revitalisation through strategic public space investment
- The plan includes a R2.5 million investment over five years to create a pedestrian-friendly area with cafes, pubs, and public art
- The vision is to make Rondebosch a lively, welcoming district that balances historic charm with modern vibrancy
Rondebosch, a bustling suburb and home to the University of Cape Town (UCT), has long been known as a local convenience hub for students rather than a vibrant, trendy destination.
However, according to the area’s Ward councillor, Mikhail Manuel, the district is ripe for revitalisation through strategic public space investment.
“For Rondebosch to fulfil its potential, we need a fresh vision that taps into the nexus of public space, business, and creative arts investment,” says Manuel, emphasizing that the time for change is now.
With 26 000 students passing through UCT’s campus daily and over 10 000 living nearby, the Rondebosch Business District holds immense potential for growth. Yet, as it stands, the area’s commercial offerings fall short of capturing the full spending power of the student population.
“Rondebosch needs to move beyond its current role as a quick-stop destination for convenience goods. Instead, it should become both a place for everyday needs and a trendy hangout for weekend socialising,” the councillor asserts.
Ten years ago, the area was known for its eclectic mix of travel agents, bookstores, pubs and video rental stores.
Today, technological shifts have altered the landscape. “The rise of online delivery mobile apps and on-demand services accelerated the decline of traditional businesses,” notes Manuel. Now, the district’s commercial tenant mix consists largely of corner convenience stores, second-hand shops, and tech outlets, which has led to a decrease in the area’s vibrancy.
“The lack of an exciting vision in response to these global changes has pushed the area into a pre-decline phase,” the councillor acknowledges, noting that pedestrian spaces have become less inviting, and shopfronts have turned into blank, unwelcoming walls.
While the councillor admits that “the city government has not coordinated any significant public space investment in the past 15 years”, this is about to change. With a renewed focus on urban renewal, the councillor is determined to “revive Rondebosch into a pedestrian-friendly node that balances its historic charm with a vibrant future.”
The revitalisation will start with a 500-metre stretch between The Baxter Theatre and Zevoli’s. The plan is backed by a R2,5 million investment over five years, starting in mid-2027, and supported by the City of Cape Town’s urban designers.
The potential economic benefits of this renewal are significant. A 2023 report by Student Village estimated that South African students spend an average of R42 000 annually. With UCT’s student population, this translates into a potential R1,1 billion market.
“To capture a larger share of this spending, Rondebosch must compete with neighbouring areas like Claremont and Observatory,” the councillor argues.
Despite Rondebosch’s current underperformance in the property rental market – where it lags behind Newlands and Claremont by R63 to R72 per square metre – there is hope.
“Rondebosch can learn from these areas by using positive placemaking to create additional value,” says the councillor.
The ward councillor’s vision is clear: “With Rondebosch’s future in mind, I want people to picture a district where public art and creative activations bring an air of innovation, where the streets feel safe and alive with student energy, and where businesses thrive on both convenience and culture.”
