Bo-Kaap Market construction nears completion after historical discovery

The Bo-Kaap Market's construction is almost finished, despite a brief delay in April when a 150-year-old stone well was unearthed. 

The discovery needed design adjustments and resubmission of approvals to preserve the significant cultural asset.

All market stalls are complete, with only the ablution block and security facility remaining.

The City's mayco member Economic Growth, James Vos, confirmed the progress of the market.

“Progress was briefly delayed in April when a historical stone well was uncovered requiring preservation measures in line with Heritage Western Cape recommendations and valuable community input.”

Vos previously said the Spolander House, on the corner of Yusuf Drive and Pentz Street, was a national heritage site and the land associated with the house (on which the well was found) was protected as a provincial heritage site.

The City said the historical background of the well was that it was located on a portion of the farm, Schotsche Kloof, originally granted in 1707. 

Vos said the construction included new trading stalls, a timber-decked seating area, hard landscaping and associated traders’ support and services centre.

“To ensure the preservation of the historic stone well, the City needed to resubmit Land Use, Building Development and Heritage approvals, making the necessary design adjustments to protect this important cultural asset while still advancing the market’s development.

“Despite this, significant progress has been made, with all market stalls now completed and only the ablution block and security facility outstanding.

“Once operational, this market is set to become the jewel of informal trading in the Bo-Kaap, creating a vibrant space that celebrates local culture, heritage, and enterprise. It will provide opportunities for traders, attract visitors, and foster economic activity that benefits both the community and the city at large,” he added.

“The market is scheduled to launch in the next few weeks. More information will be made available closer to the time.”

Public participation regarding the well's preservation took place earlier this year.

In May the City also revealed the approval of a revised six-storey hotel at 150 Buitengracht Street, bordering Bo-Kaap.

Earlier Bo-Kaap, Cultural Heritage Activist, Jacky Poking, and resident said they were thrilled about the discovery and called for the well to be preserved.

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