Potential of the Northern Growth Corridor, Cape Town

Abstract

Paper presented at the 23rd Annual Southern African Transport Conference 12 - 15 July 2004 "Getting recognition for the importance of transport", CSIR International Convention Centre, Pretoria, South Africa. The Northern Growth Corridor (NGC) is significant because it represents a physical area that has been historically underdeveloped. This changed with the demarcation of the urban edge which lead to renewed interest in the NGC. Previously, development initiatives were focussed on the two mature corridors namely Voortrekker Road and Main Road, with full capacity for development being reached. Therefore development opportunities are being sought elsewhere. It is argued that the NGC has the potential to develop into a mature activity corridor. In order for this to happen certain elements were identified as critical components to enhance development opportunities. The following were identified to contribute to the significance of the area and pose a challenge for development: �� Tourism, �� Economic Issues, �� Natural Environment, �� Movement, and �� Nuclear facility. Public transport can be seen as the catalyst for development that is needed along the NGC. The Northern Growth Corridor can provide an example of integrated land use and transport planning. Transport, especially public transport, is seen as an important precondition for upliftment and socio-economic development along the Northern Growth Corridor.