CAMPS BAY LIBRARY SALE SPARKS COMMUNITY OUTRAGE

Residents slam City's plan to sell land

- GENEVIEVE SERRA

THE City of Cape Town's Economic Growth Directorate proposes selling public land, including the Camps Bay Library and adjacent parking, to stimulate private sector-led economic development and job creation which has been met with strong opposition by ratepayers.

The City states the properties aren't needed for basic municipal services and aim to optimise them for retail and commercial use.

Instead a new library is planned near the existing one, with details emerging during a land use application.

The City is currently seeking public comments on the proposed disposal but the irate Camps Bay and Clifton Ratepayers Association (CBCRA) said they strongly oppose the sale, deeming it premature and harmful to the character of the sensitive village.

They also criticize the lack of traffic, heritage, and parking impact assessments and the absence of a concrete alternative library site.

The City's Economic Growth Directorate explained the sale prospects: "The proposed disposal is strategically motivated to unlock private sector-led development opportunities, which aligns with the City's broader agenda for economic growth, increasing jobs, and attracting investment.