The neglected, derelict Strandfontein Pavilion has been earmarked as a new development node with almost 1,200 residential units as well as retail and recreational facilities. It is hoped the development will spur further private investment in the surrounding area, upgrading the under-used False Bay coastline between Muizenberg and Strand.
The plan is to keep the tidal pool and part of the existing pavilion, re-establish the adjacent canalised river, and make it a place where people want to live by building four and seven-storey residential blocks with courtyards that let the sun in. The current entrance from Baden Powell Drive onto Strandfontein Road will remain, with another main entrance off Baden Powell to Leukannon Drive about 500 metres further on.
Infrastructure that can be dismantled and relocated if necessary, such as braai areas, pergolas, action courts, skate parks, and beach huts is included within the 100-year flood line, as well as space for short-term structures such as concert stage scaffolding and weekend seaside market stalls. Convenience shops, selling swimming, surfing and fishing equipment, and food are proposed across more than 15,000mof retail space, with the planners also accommodating a 100-bed hotel to be built within the precinct at a later stage.
Gangstas' Riviera Paradise in the making