Following infrastructure upgrades to the trading sites, Alderman James Vos, the City’s mayoral committee member for economic growth, has officially opened the revamped Uluntu Plaza in Happy Valley, Blackheath.Last year, the council approved a budget allocation for the upgrading of trading sites throughout the metro.
According to Alderman Vos, funds were also directed towards the enhancement and expansion of the e-permit system, which enables the City to process digital applications from traders in a more efficient manner. “The improvements include the development of additional trading bays, a refurbished building, and beautified surroundings, creating more economic opportunities for the community,” said Alderman Vos.
He continued, “The City’s goal is to create dignified and accessible trading spaces where traders and customers feel comfortable and confident enough to engage. This year, we will push for more funding to be directed to this necessary trading infrastructure at sites across the metro.”Uluntu Plaza in Blackheath is one of several trading locations that have been renovated in recent months. Kuils River, Du Noon, Mitchells Plain and Ravensmead are also trading areas.
More improvements are planned in communities throughout the metro, including Mfuleni, Atlantis and Masiphumelele. The improvements are in accordance with informal trading plans that are based on the specific conditions of each area.“While the infrastructure is being revamped, traders also receive workshops on various concerns such as basic accounting principles, marketing, costing and pricing, customer relations, and conflict management,” said Alderman Vos.