Cape Winelands Airport secures environmental approval for R8bn expansion project
Cape Winelands Airport.
Image: supplied
Cape Winelands Airport has received the green flag and approval from the Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning (DEADP) for its Environmental Authorisation (EA), providing a vital key for its planned expansion.
The authorisation was officially issued this week.
This approval marks a major milestone in the progression of the airport’s expansion project and follows an extensive environmental assessment and consultation process undertaken in full compliance with the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA).
The airport, which is projected to open in 2028 and boost the economy by R8bn, secured a landmark partnership with Growthpoint Properties earlier this month, and jointly they are set to deliver the province’s next-generation aviation, hospitality and industrial hub.
The proposed project entails the expansion of the existing Cape Winelands Airport in a phased development approach.
Image: Supplied
Growthpoint Properties, which co-owns the V&A Waterfront and holds group property assets to the value of R155.8 billion across retail, office and logistics properties.
Construction of Cape Winelands Airport, the former Fisantekraal airfield, could begin in early 2026, with the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) having been approved.
The development will proceed in phases, starting with the runway and safety infrastructure, followed by the terminal, cargo and industrial precincts.
The airport is targeted for commissioning by 2028 with capacity for more than five million passengers annually by 2050, with more unfolding over more than two decades.
According to Cape Winelands, the authorisation is the culmination of more than two years of dedicated environmental planning and public participation, including four rounds of public consultation, two open days, and over 40 specialist studies assessing environmental, social, and technical factors.
With this authorisation now in place, the Environmental Practitioners have 14 days to formally notify all registered Interested and Affected Parties (I&APs).
Deon Cloete, Managing Director, Cape Winelands Airport said the green flag meant their vision was being realised: “The granting of Environmental Authorisation is an important validation of the extensive work and consultation that has gone into ensuring this project meets the highest environmental and community standards.
“We are mighty pleased with this positive outcome and grateful for all the support and encouragement received over the years. This is truly a milestone made possible with the support of our stakeholders, partners and the community”.
The proposed project entails the expansion of the existing Cape Winelands Airport in a phased development approach. This includes the realignment of the primary runway (01/19) and extending its length to 3.5 km.
The expansion plans for the airport include a new boutique terminal building. This modern facility will feature efficient check-in counters with advanced technology for swift processing, spacious and comfortable waiting lounges with ergonomic seating, and a variety of retail options.
“By creating tens of thousands of jobs and establishing a world-class aviation and logistics hub, we’re helping to unlock the full potential of the Cape Winelands and greater region," Cloete said
Earlier, Eddie Andrews, the City’s Deputy mayco committee member for Spatial Planning and Environment explained their portion: “ The City has received a land use application in terms of the Municipal Planning By-Law. It is currently in the circulation / advertising phase to interested and affected parties, specialist departments and organs of state.”