Our Future Cities

Goodluck @BafanaBafana . Let’s show the boys our full support as they push for victory! 🙌🔥 Trains will be operating across all corridors after the game, so you can enjoy every moment stress-free. Cheer loud, enjoy the game, and let us take care of your journey back home

South Africa needs to take inner-city regeneration seriously again Our recent visit to East London was a reminder that many of South Africa’s inner cities and town centres remain strategically important urban assets, yet too many continue to be neglected and allowed to decline. This is not only a Johannesburg story. SACN research shows that South Africa’s intermediate cities house roughly one-third of the population and generate close to 30% of national economic activity. There is a real opportunity to build the place-based partnerships needed to regenerate these urban centres as engines of wellbeing, investment and growth. But that will require moving beyond the repeated cycle of announcing new “smart cities” that too often resemble glorified business parks rather than serious urban solutions. What is needed now is more grounded research, stronger placemaking, deeper engagement and more decisive action, alongside a far stronger national commitment to bringing out the best in our town centres, city centres and CBDs. #urban #urbanism #southafrica #eastlondon #regeneration #redevelopment

How could the Olympic Games work for South Africa? In our latest @BDliveSA piece, @guybriggs_sa and @RashiqFataar argue that the IOC's new model could help accelerate long-term national priorities such as housing, transport and sports infrastructure. businessday.co.za/lifestyle/2026…

Can #placemaking and art make a difference in neighbourhoods impacted by gangs and neglect? Yes(!) says our friend, Michael Bell and the PAINT Communities project in Tafelsig, Mitchells Plain. Since formalising almost 10 years ago, PAINT has completed 17 murals with artists across walls, walkways, homes and bus shelters. None have been vandalised. Some former taggers now paint with the project. In sections along AZ Berman Drive, white backgrounds were used intentionally to help reflect limited street lighting and improve visibility for commuters and schoolchildren. Gang activity and socio-economic pressures remain serious. But over time, Michael believes that reclaiming public spaces, brings hopes, dignity and some fun. If you’d like to support a mural or the initiative, feel free to reach out. Next step would be to reduce the death-trap road safety risk to young people on AZ Berman Drive. @geordinhl @CityofCT @RobQuintas #UrbanMobilityCT