News of South Africa’s very first car free green eco village in Cape Town has gone global recently, as photos and sneak peeks have been revealed. From the looks of it, this unique green village is the first of its kind in South Africa and will certainly set a much-needed precedent where green building is concerned!
Situated in the beautiful Cape Winelands, this village will be built in the current Blue Rock Resort in Somerset West. The project is not going to be an overnight one – it will however be one that enables residents to live in a village that is free of cars, pollution and noise. Thousands of apartments, as well as a variety of spas, medical centres, boutiques, schools and restaurants will all be integrated into the future Blue Rock Village, which has a budget of R14 billion ($900 million).
A Look at the Future Car Free Eco Village in Cape Town
What will the Cape Town eco village have to offer, and, more importantly, why is there such a huge need for this type of concept? Let’s take a look…
Before we share some sneak previews, it is important to understand the current energy crisis as well as the overall state of the environment in South Africa in order to see why eco villages are a big deal. Currently, South Africa is listed in the top 12 producers of carbon emissions. According to a report by eco organisation, Groundwork, average temperatures in SA are expected to rise between 6 and 12 degrees Celsius by the end of the century. Added to this is the ongoing energy crisis and the existing water crisis that has seen much of the country in drought recently.
Cape Town, being the forward-thinking city that it is, has been on a mission to generate 10-20% of it power from renewable energy by 2020. According to Business Day, the city is actively encouraging residents to consider alternative, sustainable power sources. And that means that projects such as Blue Rock Village are getting a lot of positive review.
The new green village will have the following to offer its residents:
– Cars will be limited to a main road or confined to underground parking lots.
– Renewable energy sources and technologies such as LED lights and water management systems will be in place.
– Village lifestyle will offer a traditional shopping and dining experience, with high quality vendors and home-grown produce.
– Luxury terrace apartments will give residents an idyllic lifestyle accommodation overlooking Blue Rock Lake.
– All buildings and structures will be designed according to green and sustainable construction practices.
– A high standard of living will be offered, with a work, life and play balance that is suited to families, couples and singles.
Blue Rock Resort is situated on Sir Lowry’s Pass in Somerset West, in easy access of the Cape Winelands. The Cape Town City Centre, international airport and other key attractions are all within an hour’s drive or less. For more information on SA’s eco village in Cape Town, visit www.bluerockvillage.co.za.
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What do you think… would you see yourself living in an eco friendly village that is free of cars, pollution and other environmental damage? It certainly sounds like a dream village to me. Let me know what you think in the comments below!
