Maitland Local Spatial Development Framework (2024)Information Sessions 13th and 17th July 2024 The City of Cape Town’s Council approved the local spatial development framework (LSDF) for Maitland on the 27th of March 2024. The LSDF …
As we move into the cooler months, we’re looking back and highlighting the efforts made during Q1 to keep the Maitland City Improvement District a safe and clean place to live, work and visit. At this …
Working together with residents, local businesses and urban management specialists to create a rich urban environment where the Maitland community can thrive, we – the Maitland City Improvement District – welcome 2024 with the new …
It’s been another year of successes and tackling challenges head-on for the Maitland City Improvement District. As part of our renewed commitment to public safety and urban cleaning and management, we persist in leading the …
Mid-October, we hold our Annual General Meeting (AGM 2023) to review the year’s activities and begin our planning for 2024/25. The Maitland CID has also appointed a new manager. Read on for more. SAVE THE …
Membership of the SRA, which is a non-profit company registered under the Companies Act, is open to all the registered property owners who are encouraged to apply for membership so that they may exercise their rights to influence the business of the SRA. Membership cannot be denied to a registered property owner and as a member the property owner is entitled to attend, participate and vote at members meetings of the Company held under the auspices of the Companies Act.
Should a member be unable to attend they may give another individual their proxy to attend and vote on their behalf. Non-members may attend and participate at members’ meetings but cannot vote and as such may thus have limited influence on the SRA’s activities.
Membership application forms can be downloaded from the link below – once complete please send the form back to enquiries@maitcid.co.za
Click below to download the Membership Application Form
Maitland Local Spatial Development Framework (2024) Information Sessions 13th and 17th July 2024
The City of Cape Town’s Council approved the local spatial development framework (LSDF) for Maitland on the 27th of March 2024. The LSDF was drafted in collaboration with the local community and business owners. The spatial vision intends to revitalise the area by guiding public infrastructure investment and unlocking developments that will assist with job creation, among others.
To access a digital copy of the approved LSDF visit the City’s website link here.
Maitland LSDF Information Sessions
The City of Cape Town’s Urban Planning and Design Department will host two information sessions on the Council approved local spatial development framework (LSDF) for Maitland that was approved by Council on the 27th of March 2024.
The two information sessions are planned for the 13th and 17th of July 2024 at Maitland Town Hall.
The now approved LSDF determines the development vision for Maitland on an area level. Going forward, the City will use the LSDF for guidance when making decisions about development applications and land uses; and in the end, these decisions will determine what Maitland will look and feel like a few years down the line.
The Maitland LSDF pursues a spatial vision that will assist with the regeneration of the area:
Maitland represents the gateway to Voortrekker Road which is a development corridor and activity route; the Urban Development Zone along Maitland and Kensington offers an opportunity of urban regeneration with a diversity of mixed uses that will be supported by the first phase of the Voortrekker Road Streetscape and road widening.
Prioritised, coordinated and sequenced City improvements of Maitland’s road infrastructure are important catalysts for urban regeneration and include the planned new MyCiTi bus station and proposed upgrade of Berkley Road. The projects will enhance and enable the movement of goods and people, and facilitate an improved public realm for better access supported by job generating activities. The City is currently sourcing comment from the public about the proposed upgrade of Berkley Road: capetown.gov.za/City-Connect/Have-your-say/Issues-open-for-public-comment/upgrade-of-berkley-road-in-maitland,
Prioritising universally accessible and safe pedestrian movement
Using the Black River as an asset to create new opportunities and improved access between Maitland and the river
Improving access and connectivity with the creation of integrated and inclusive communal spaces
The LSDF also includes:
Maps to reflect current and future elements such as road networks, public transport systems, public open spaces, and public facilities
Land use management guidelines, guidance on improved connectivity and greater accessibility to support a high quality urban form and universally accessible public realm in line with transit orientated development
The spatial proposals to improve the urban space, among which indicating areas where public and private development should be prioritised, and areas in need of strategic intervention to pursue the vision of a City of Hope for Maitland
Key infrastructure requirements to enable the spatial vision have been prioritised, sequenced and phased as part of the implementation plan
An implementation plan indicating City projects at a concept stage, and others that have been confirmed and those that are already underway to realise the spatial vision
Technical input and analysis led by the City’s Urban Planning and Design Department, with input from City line departments, the Western Cape Government, National Ports Authority, Transnet and National Department of Public Works
The Maitland LSDF elaborates on and supports the spatial development guidelines as set out in the Table Bay District Spatial Development Framework, which is a higher order plan for the greater Table Bay area; and the City’s Municipal Spatial Development Framework that sets the overall spatial vision for Cape Town.
As we move into the cooler months, we’re looking back and highlighting the efforts made during Q1 to keep the Maitland City Improvement District a safe and clean place to live, work and visit. At this time, we also start preparing for winter with all the necessary maintenance to public space, and we ask you to take care of your property and business by doing the same. Lastly, we offer our safety tips for your wheelie bin, which can become a security hazard, especially as our daylight hours decrease.
Looking back at Q1
For Quarter One 2024, we focused on maintaining a safe environment through our security initiatives, which include ensuring bin-pickers and loiterers are monitored and dealt with. Additionally, the Maitland City Improvement District’s cleanliness was a priority, with our cleaning services ensuring a well-maintained space through initiatives such as emptying public bins on time and cleaning public gutters when needed. You can learn more about what we accomplished this quarter below.
On the ground report from our CID manager
Our CID manager provides an update on crime in the area:
“We have over the previous quarter seen a slight increase in business robberies of establishments, which are open during the weekends or where opportunity presents itself. These are mostly superettes, meat wholesalers and small shops, which tend to become quiet or isolated during the later parts of the afternoons. Some robberies were brazen and occurred during midday while clients or customers were still in the shops. Theft from motor vehicles also increased. This is a difficult crime to prevent because you must be at the right place and at the right moment to prevent it. Reports of remote jamming of vehicles or attempted remote jamming were received. Common robberies where predominantly cell phones are targeted are a daily occurrence; carelessness plays a large role in this. Most such cases are not reported to the SAPS, due to the embarrassment factor, or the cell phone is not insured, and the prospect of it being found is slim.”
Wheelie Bin Safety
Learn how to keep your wheelie bin and property safe, or replace a lost bin, with these helpful tips.
Keeping your wheelie bin secure benefits both you and the community. Clearly marking your bin with your house number or address increases the chances of its safe return if it gets misplaced. But security goes beyond just the bin itself. To ensure your overall safety, be mindful of what you throw away. Avoid discarding medication bottles with your name or address visible. Shred any personal documents before disposal to prevent identity theft.
Bin placement also plays a role in security. Leaving your wheelie bin too close to walls or fences creates a potential climbing aid for trespassers. Ideally, store your bin in a designated area, like a garage or shed, whenever possible. If not, position it in a well-lit, open area away from fences and walls. By following these simple tips, you can keep your wheelie bin secure and reduce potential security risks around your property.
Winter Readiness
The crisp air and cosy vibes of winter are fast approaching, but so are the challenges of rain, wind and potential disruptions. Don’t get caught off guard! We’ve got you covered with essential tips to navigate the season seamlessly.
From keeping your property prepared and business functioning smoothly, to staying safe on the roads, these handy suggestions will help you embrace the winter flow.
Working together with residents, local businesses and urban management specialists to create a rich urban environment where the Maitland community can thrive, we – the Maitland City Improvement District – welcome 2024 with the new challenges and opportunities it will provide. Together with the City of Cape Town, our partners, outreach initiatives and you, we will continue to strive towards reinvigorating our urban environment.
Aligned in our collective mission, we are committed to cultivating a thriving urban ecosystem that is safe, accessible and inviting to all the workers, visitors and community members of our district. We are unwavering in our commitment to the property and business owners of our area and intend to consolidate and elevate our services based on the successes of last year.
Please feel free to contact us at any time with queries or concerns and be reminded of our 24-hour security control room number for public safety incidents.
For Public Safety Emergencies Contact
24-hour Geocentric Control Room: 021 565 0900
Let’s embark on this journey together, embracing the challenges and opportunities that 2024 presents, as we collectively shape the future of our Maitland community. Together we can create a stable, safe, clean area that is prosperous for our community both economically and socially.
Safety & Fire During the Hot, Dry and Windy Cape Town Summer Months
Cape Town fire season occurs from November through May. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe.
Cape Town is notoriously prone to wildfires that occur in natural vegetation when it is hot and dry in the summer months, which coincide with the windy season – creating ideal conditions for wildfires to occur and quickly get out of control. This season has already been earmarked to be the worst fire season in 8 years.
Cape Town fires are particularly common in the Table Mountain National Park due to the natural conditions in our fynbos ecosystem. But, homes and businesses are not exempt from danger, as any fire can spread quickly and far – up to tens of kilometres from the source. It is most important to keep your home, family and business safe, protecting life and property, as our urban living spaces share a boundary with the national parks in many parts of Cape Town and the Western Cape.
By 18 January 2024, there had been a total of 22 new fire incidents, with SANParks firefighting teams demonstrating swift response and effective containment. This influx has occurred particularly in the southern section of Table Mountain National Park, in Kalk Bay, Oceanview and Red Hill areas, as well as in the north of the park, in the Signal Hill and Pipe Track areas, posing significant risk to the communities living adjacent to the park, particularly with hot temperatures and strong wind conditions being experienced.
Fire Safety Precautions & Interventions
In Cape Town, there are various organisations in place to manage fire safety and interventions that should be taken, both to avoid fire and to control it when it happens.
Home and work checklist for fire safety
Always have a “grab bag” with your important documents in it such as birth certificates and passports.
Make sure that all your insurance documents and other important documentation are backed up securely to the cloud.
Assign tasks to family members or staff such as placing pets or kids in the car and driving them to safety at a friend’s house out of smoke danger.
Run fire drills so that everyone is prepared in an emergency.
If you need to stay and help fight fires, cover your head, nose and mouth and protect your eyes with goggles. Wear good shoes and gloves.
Wetting the roof and gutters can stop hot ash from burning the roof.
Keep grass cut as short grass helps slow down fire.
Keep a hose pipe rolled up and ready to put out fires.
Keep a fire extinguisher in kitchens and train staff or family members how to use it.
If you volunteer on the mountain in a wildfire, take a spade – this helps to beat out fire or throw sand on smouldering grass tufts.
Always remember, your safety is first and if you are not properly trained, call for assistance.
Each year, the City of Cape Town’s Fire and Rescue Service contracts the use of two Huey helicopters and a Cessna 182 spotter plane to support its firefighting efforts. These aircraft allow for mountain wildfires to be combated in inaccessible areas that pose a serious risk to property and life.
For the first time since using the aerial appliances, they are now branded this season, clearly identifiable as City resources.
Telephone: 107 (landline) or 021 480 7700 (cellphone)
General fire safety enquiries:
Telephone: 021 590 1971 / 021 590 1975
To report a fire in the Table Mountain National Park
Please call:
Hotline: 086 110 6417 or
The City’s Regional Fire Control No: (021) 590 1900
Newlands Fire Base: Tel: +27(0) 21 689 7438
Fire Prevention Tips
There are simple preventatives we can all pay heed to – such as not lighting a fire or braai on a hot and windy day, and never extinguishing a cigarette out of doors, such as out of a car window, in grass or when hiking.
For property owners, ember-proofing any area requires the removal of all flammable plants up to 7m from a building, as well as overhanging branches. Checking and cleaning gutters and roofing for debris is important too.
Other interventions that you can implement on a larger scale include considering your construction materials if you are remodelling and supplementing them for fire-resistant alternatives. You should also ensure full continued compliance with all local and national fire safety codes and think about installing fire protection systems such as overhead sprinklers.
Unfortunately, despite all the precautions, a fire can happen to any size business at any time. That is why protecting your employees and your property should be a top priority. Following the above steps will help you avoid any fires breaking out and minimise fire-related damages. While there may be no such thing as truly “fireproof,” these guidelines are an excellent starting point for safeguarding your business.
It’s been another year of successes and tackling challenges head-on for the Maitland City Improvement District. As part of our renewed commitment to public safety and urban cleaning and management, we persist in leading the way toward the continuous improvement of Maitland as a thriving residential and business hub.
Our MAITCID team has increased their presence on the ground, resulting in improved statistics across the board for 2023. We’ve driven more kilometres in our patrol vehicles, engaged with more members of the public and attended to more service requests and urban defects than ever before. We’ll continue with this increased presence in the community in 2024 and the years beyond.
This year, with 51 CIDs now in operation in the City of Cape Town, the new CID by-law and policy has come into effect. Geocentric, who has now been working with city improvement district initiatives for more than 2 decades, is proud to be responsible for over 25% of the total CIDs in operation.
In addition to taking care of the public’s safety and urban cleaning, our CID placed a focus on greening areas across Maitland in 2023. These urban beautification projects will be continued throughout 2024, in line with the goal of continuously upgrading our community.
2023 Maitland City Improvement DistrictStats
“Despite the challenges of a struggling economy, ongoing load shedding and higher fuel prices, the aim of the MAITCID remained focussed on delivering top-up services to the public spaces of Maitland throughout the year,” says Gene Lohrentz of Geocentric Urban Management, tasked with the delivery of our City Improvement District services.
The MAITCID Board and Geocentric management team is committed to finding innovative, efficient and cost-effective ways to continue delivering on the vision for a safer, cleaner, well-maintained and vibrant community. We look forward to more opportunities to make a tangible difference in 2024.
Safety Tips for the Holiday Season
As the festive season approaches, it is essential to prioritise safety at this time, as crime, accidents and fire hazards are usually on the rise during the holiday period.
Being mindful of potential risks and hazards can help safeguard you, your business and your property – from road safety considerations to vigilance against petty crimes in crowded business premises to more serious crimes such as hijacking and robbery.
Along with keeping your personal safety in mind, if you are a business owner, it is imperative to be vigilant and proactive in implementing strategies that protect your assets, property and staff during the busiest time of year.
Prevention is better than cure. That’s why we urge property and business owners to make every effort to prepare their properties, businesses, staff and themselves against opportunists and criminals with our safety tips below:
Emergency Numbers
Quick access to relevant emergency numbers can be the difference between life and death. We have compiled a comprehensive list for you to save and share for easy access to these numbers.
Once again, our 24-hour security control room is always available for your public safety emergencies.
Whatsapp group info
If you’re interested in staying informed about our initiatives, as well as the newest developments in your improvement district, you can become a member of our MAITCID business WhatsApp group by:
• Sending a WhatsApp message to 081 869 8911.
• You will need to include your Name and Surname or the name of your business
• You will need to include your street address, which should be within the boundary of the CID
• We will add you to the relevant CID Community Group
Rules and regulations for communicating will be stipulated in the group.
Mid-October, we hold our Annual General Meeting (AGM 2023) to review the year’s activities and begin our planning for 2024/25. The Maitland CID has also appointed a new manager. Read on for more.
SAVE THE DATE! Our AGM is coming up
All stakeholders are invited to a review of the year’s activities and planning for 2024/25.
Resolutions presented at the AGM can only be voted for by bonafide members. All non-members wishing to take part must be registered before 6 October.
The new CID by-law policy came into effect from 1 July, which serves “To provide for the establishment of City Improvement Districts; to provide for additional rates; and to provide for matters incidental thereto.”
The City of Cape Town’s by-law and policy regarding the establishment and management of City Improvement Districts has gone through several iterations over the years since the concept of a CID was first tested in the year 2000.
The latest revisions of the by-law and policy comes as more than 50 CIDs are now in operation.
The by-law is available to download online here at openbylaws.org.za.
Meet our new manager
Meet our new Maitland City Improvement District manager! Gerhard is committed to making Maitland better for our community, working tirelessly in his key role at our City Improvement District.
MAITCID Manager Gerhard Jansen van Rensburg is available on 084 3096078 or maitcid@geocentric.co.za.
You too can assist with urban management and the growing number of faults and service requests that the City and WID deal with on a daily basis. By reporting water and electricity faults and other maintenance requirements such as potholes, missing road signs or blocked stormwater drains, through the correct channels, we and the City are able to attend to these service requests and log their status in an effective way.
As the chilly and wet winter season approaches, it’s time to prepare ourselves for the unique challenges and delights that it brings.
From the brisk air to the rain-soaked streets, Cape Town winter demands our attention and readiness. Here, we explore practical tips to help you navigate the winter months with ease. From maintaining your home and business’ functionality to prioritising safety on the roads, these essential suggestions will ensure you’re well-prepared to go with the flow this winter. Let’s dive in and discover how to make the most of the wet season while keeping everything running smoothly.
2023 is well underway and as we embark on a year set to take our Maitland City Improvement District to new heights, we share some important reminders from MaitCID and the City.
As always, our focus remains on developing a safe, accessible and welcoming urban ecosystem for all workers, visitors and community members in our district. We are firmly committed to supporting the property and business owners in our locality, and our aim is to build upon last year’s successes by strengthening and enhancing our services.
For Public Safety Emergencies contact our 24-hour control room on 021 565 0900.
For other important contact numbers, visit our Contact page.
How to replace a wheelie bin
Registered property owners are entitled to a 240-litre wheelie bin for the household. To replace a wheelie bin that has been damaged or stolen, the registered property owner or property managing agent need complete a Supply of Services Application Form from the City of Cape Town’s website and submit it with a copy of your ID at your nearest Walk-in Centre or email it to wastewise@capetown.gov.za.
Did you know that you can log a service request – such as a faulty streetlight, water leak or pothole – directly with the City on their website and receive updates within minutes. Their online service request portal also allows you to track your request using your reference number and opt in to SMS or email updates.
Tackling illegal dumping remains one of the biggest challenges of our City Improvement Districts and one you can assist in by reporting an incident directly to us on our CID WhatsApp group monitored 24/7.
This includes not only rubbish, but also rubble. The practice costs Cape Town taxpayers millions of rands in maintenance on top of usual taxes.
The City is also clamping down on illegal dumping and has launched a reward system for reporting tip-offs about illegal dumping activity to their 24-hour toll-free number (0800 110077). Those convicted of illegal dumping could be fined up to R5 000, have their vehicle impounded, or face a two-year prison sentence. In addition, for every report that leads to a fine and conviction, the City is offering a reward from R1 000 up to R5 000, depending on the offence.
Legislation requires municipalities to undertake a General Valuation (GV) every four years. The City of Cape Town initiated this process last year and the GV Roll will be ready for property owners in the metro to inspect from 21 February 2023. Objections must be submitted by no later than 30 April 2023. The GV determines what contributions property owners make to the rates account. Rates are used for shared services such as fire services, libraries, recreational areas and clinics. New rates will be implemented from 1 July 2023.
Mayor Hill-Lewis calls on Capetonians to help end load-shedding using solar incentives
Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has welcomed the new incentives for households and businesses to install solar generation, as announced in Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s national budget. From 1 March 2023, businesses will be able to reduce their taxable income by 125 percent of the cost of an investment in renewables. Changes to the Bounce Back Loan Guarantee Scheme will guarantee solar-related loans for small and medium enterprises. A new tax rebate incentive will also help individuals recover 25% of the cost of installing rooftop solar panels in the 23/24 tax year up to a maximum of R15 000.
The invasive Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer beetle (PSHB) has been spreading steadily, with the latest infestations confirmed in Observatory along the Liesbeek River, and Kenilworth. The City has recorded at least 128 sightings of this pest in the Southern suburbs within less than a month.
2022 has been a year for celebrating successes for Maitland City Improvement District and tackling new and ongoing challenges. With our new five-year business plan term commencing in July 2022 we renew our commitment to providing top-up services to the City of Cape Town with a special focus on public safety, urban cleaning and management, continuing to lead the charge in the continual improvement of Maitland as a residential and business area.
As we round up 2022 following our recent AGM held in November, we recap on the year’s work, successes and statistics.
Maitland City Improvement District’s achievements of the last year are a testament to the team’s commitment, experience and increased on-the-ground presence – led by the capable hands of Geocentric, who have been working with city improvement district initiatives since 2001 and responsible for a total of thirteen of Cape Town’s improvement districts from Salt River through to Strand, Tyger Valley and Wynberg.
“The rollercoasting aftermath of Covid lockdowns steadily calmed down in 2022, yet conditions remained difficult as significant increases in the cost of living and the continuous challenges of load-shedding remained at the forefront,” says Gene Lohrentz, director of Geocentric.
“In the face of these new challenges, the Maitland board and management team have remained steadfast in our commitment to providing high-quality top-up services in Maitland. Embracing and implementing adaptability into our vision now seems entrenched in our day-to-day operations as well as our strategic thinking.”
2022 Maitland City Improvement District stats
Stay safe this festive season
From increased fire hazards in Cape Town to countrywide holiday travel to seasonal crime spikes, there are many reasons to up our vigilance these summer months and to take the necessary precautions to stay safe.
Home and Work Checklist for Fire Safety
Ember-proofing any area, requires the removal of all flammable plants up to 7m from a building, as well as overhanging branches. Checking and cleaning gutters and roofing for debris is important too.
Always remember, your safety is first and if you are not properly trained, call for assistance.
Make sure that all your insurance documents and other important documentation are backed up securely to the cloud.
Assign tasks to staff and run fire drills so that everyone is prepared in an emergency.
If you need to stay and help fight fires, cover your head, nose and mouth and protect your eyes with goggles. Wear good shoes and gloves.
If you have access to water, wet the roof and gutters to stop hot ash from burning the roof.
Keep grass cut as short as possible as it helps slow the fire.
Keep a hose pipe rolled up and ready.
Keep fire extinguishers around that are regularly maintained and train your staff on how to use them safely and correctly.
Safety Tips To Prevent Property Crime
Ensure your property can be secured properly. This includes checking all locks, gates, doors, windows and roller shutters.
Ensure there are no gaps in your fence or perimeter wall or unintentional points of access to your business or home that may need additional security.
Make sure all bushes or trees close to your walls, gates and fences are trimmed, to avoid the possibility of intruders hiding or using them to access your property.
Adequate lighting around the perimeter of your property acts as a good deterrent
Connecting outdoor lights to timers and motion sensors act as an additional deterrent.
Have an alarm installed by a reputable security company with armed response.
The key to effective security lies in being able to detect a potential intruder before they gain access. Adding detection beams and sensors of electrical fences vastly contributes to property security
Ensure your alarm is in working order. Business and property owners should test their alarms at least once a month and should the system require servicing this should be arranged as early as possible.
Please ensure that all the key holder information is available and ensure that key holders are available and able to come out to the property should the alarm activate, and checking be required.
Don’t leave ladders, spades or tools outside as these can be excellent break-in tools.
Ensure that remote controls for automatic gates and garage doors are not left lying around.
Always be alert to vehicles or persons following you into your entrance or the parking area.
Road safety tips
Check your vehicle before travelling long distances – including tyre tread and pressure, oil and water, wind-screen wipers, headlights and brakelights and ensure your spare tyre, jack and emergency warning triangle are all intact and stored in your vehicle
Leave early to be prepared for road congestion during busy periods
Take breaks to avoid road fatigue which can cause accidents
Be aware of pedestrians particularly when passing broken down vehicles or public transport
If you are curious about the work we do and want to stay up to date with the latest developments in your improvement district, you will be able to join our MAITCID business WhatsApp group by:
• Sending a WhatsApp message to 081 869 8911
• You will need to include your Name and Surname or the name of your business
• You will need to include your street address which should be within the boundary of the Maitland City Improvement District
• We will add you to the Maitland City Improvement District Community Group
Rules and regulations for communicating will be stipulated in the group.
The Maitland City Improvement District NPC (MAITCID) will be hosting an AGM. All stakeholders are invited to a review of the year’s activities and planning for 2023/24.
Date: Tuesday, 18 October 2022
Time: 16:00
Venue: Maitland City Hall, 268 Voortrekker Road, Maitland, Western Cape
Resolutions presented at the Members meeting can only be voted on by bona fide members of the MAITCID. This membership is available free of charge to all owners of non-residential property within the MAITCID footprint, but they must be registered before 07 October 2022.
A Special Resolution will be required for the amendment of the new Memorandum of Incorporation (MOI) as contemplated in Section 16(5)(a) of the Companies Act, Act 71 of 2008.
For further information, documentation and how to register go to the AGM Page or e-mail enquiries@maitcid.co.za or call 021 565 0901
In the last few months, we’ve been working hard on our most important goals all to make our community a safe, rich urban environment where our community can thrive.
