1 Feb 2024 WATERFRONT CELEBRATES A RECORD FESTIVE Our neighbourhood had its strongest festive season yet, with a record number of visitors, living up to our billing as the country’s leading tourist destination and a major contributor to the city’s economic growth. More than 3 million visits – from locals, as well as a large number of international tourists – all who enjoyed the best of the city in our safe and vibrant neighbourhood. Year on year visitor numbers are at 25 million, up 25% on 2022, with most attractions trading positively, while retail sales and hotels, which are more influenced by international tourists experiencing the same. We’re still in our peak summer season and the best time for visitors to enjoy our neighbourhood. Visitors enjoyed the sight of the cruise ship Azamara Pursuit during its recent visit to the Waterfront. We extend our gratitude to each of you who made this extraordinary season possible. Here’s to a continued journey of excellence in 2024. Innovation challenge for a plastic-free future In 2022, we strengthened our dedication to reducing the environmental impact of plastics by joining the South African Plastics Pact, an initiative focused on transforming the design, usage, and reuse of plastic products and packaging. In addition, we have updated our tenant lease agreement with the goal of eliminating single-use plastics within the precinct by 2025. To continue our journey of fostering change, The Solve team, a V&A Waterfront sustainability initiative has also collaborated with the Vikara Institute and Ocean Hub Africa, on their annual Plastics Innovation and Circularity Challenge which seeks to find enterprises operating in the plastics circularity sector, providing products, technology, or services that promote the reduction or elimination of plastic products. Click here to read more. Waterfront waste diversion plan achieves key milestone In a successful two-year partnership with WastePlan, we have achieved a remarkable milestone by diverting over 400 tonnes of waste monthly from landfills. Surpassing the initial goal of 50% waste diversion rate within two months, we proudly reached a 70% rate after only a year, preventing an estimate of 408 tonnes of waste each month from contributing to landfills. Spanning 123 hectares, and resembling a bustling mini-city with numerous tenants, residents, hotels and millions of annual visitors, we navigate the intricate challenge of handling 560-600 tonnes of waste per month. Read more here. Our on-site Waste Recovery and Recycling Centre efficiently processes high volumes of waste, which contributes to our commitment to sustainable waste management. Click here to learn more about the waste management case study. Mercedes-Benz unveils luxury lounge Image credit: Carsite.co.za Mercedes-Benz South Africa proudly unveils the Mercedes-Benz V&A Lounge in our Canal District. A testament to Modern Luxury, the 120m² space offers an immersive customer experience, featuring exclusive concierge services, MB Rent services, and Service24. Situated in the Investec Building, the lounge embraces future thinking with four electric vehicle charging stations, providing convenience and sophistication to customers in the Atlantic Seaboard and Cape Town CBD. Upcoming Events Silo Concerts – The Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra Date: Friday, 2 February Time: 19h00 – 20h00 Location: Silo District Immerse yourself in the rich harmonies of the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra, as they showcase their versatile and globally acclaimed musical prowess across diverse genres. Dricus du Plessis Belt Tour Date: Friday, 2 February Time: 15h30 – 17h30 Location: Amphitheatre Stage Following his UFC middleweight victory, Dricus du Plessis will embark on a tour, showcasing his championship belt right here in our neighborhood. V&A Record fair Date: Saturday, 3 February Time: 10h00 – 14h00 Location: Watershed Expect over 3 000 vinyl records waiting to be discovered, as well as a great selection of CDs, music books, band merch, tees and cassettes on sale. There will also be DJs on decks throughout the day. Celebration of Chinese New Year in Cape Town Date: Saturday, 3 February Time: 12h00 – 18h00 Location: Amphitheatre Stage Embark on a cultural journey, as the Chinese Community ushers in the Year of the Dragon with a captivating celebration showcasing Chinese Culture, Arts, Calligraphy, Painting, Tea, and Taiji.
