Cape Town’s residents are all familiar with the Grand Parade – a wide open space that lies right by City Hall, the Cape Town Library and the Golden Arrow bus terminus. We’ve all had to walk across it at some point and been disappointed to find that its grandeur has faded.
Speaking to News24 on Monday, a City of Cape Town spokesperson, Luthando Tyhalibongo, said that the Grand Parade will soon undergo an extensive upgrade. “The Grand Parade is an iconic site, and its upgrade together with the major upgrade of the City Hall will increase the precinct’s profile as an events venue,” said Tyhalibongo.
It was last upgraded in 2010, when the buildings in the space received a fresh coat of paint. The latest upgrades will include the setting up of an area to accommodate law enforcement on site. This will improve policing and security in the area.
“The precinct is one of our oldest and most central public spaces, with a rich history that resonates with Capetonians as well as visitors to our city, and has been host to many nationally and internationally-important events,” Tyhalibongo said.
The existing ablution facilities on the site will be improved, while a row of kiosks there is expected to be pulled down. Traders affected by this will be accommodated.
In addition, the kiosks closest to Plein Street will be refurbished to be compliant with the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) regulations.
The renovations will commence in February 2019 and are expected to be completed by 30 June 2019.
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