While the current architectural proposal by DHK architects leaves much to be desired, the development of this site, in this part of the city is a significant step forward in cementing Cape Town’s position as the Parliamentary capital. Furthermore, the proposal in its current form envisages a significant high-rise residential component, promoting confidence in the “The Fringe” and The East City while freeing up several hecatres of land in Acacia Park for an appropriate upgrade or transformation of the existing Parliamentarian homes.
More than buildings?
An exciting aspect of this development, beyond the the potential new tower and hotel, would be the creation of public spaces in and around the precinct, including a revitalization of Roeland Street. This may act as a “grand boulevard” approach to the existing Parliament Buildings with the creation of a “Parliament Walk”, potentially the new red carpet for future #SONA events.
Parliament Precinct
Value: R4 billion +
Development type:
Mixed-use
Address:
Roeland Street ,Plein Street, Commercial Street – Cape Town
Status:
Unknonw (demolition of existing buildings complete)
Information:
Parliament Precinct was developed to create a mixed use development within one of the oldest parts of Cape Town.
It is in close proximity to The House of Parliament and the Company’s Garden. Rust-en-Vreugd is a provincial heritage site, and is located in the heart of the development.
The development of Parliament Precinct is aimed at the following:
- The creation of public and semi-public squares with active retail edges.
- The development of a hotel development on freedom square
- Parliament Walk is a pedestrian street, linking Roeland Steet with the rest of the development
- Establishing an address for the historically important buildings such as Rust-en Vreugd
- The creation of accommodation for member of Parliament
- The majority of the land is owned by Parliament and Eurocape Investments.
FACTBOX
- Land Area: 7 000m²
- Components: 47 000m² of office space
- 200-key, three-star hotel
- 190 residential flats
- 2 000 parking bays
- 400 flats for MPs’ housing, a retail and entertainment centre
Source: DHK Architects + Urban Studio