City of Cape Town to explore night time economy opportunities

The Cape Town council is considering the potential opportunities associated with the night-time economy in the city centre and surrounding areas. PHOTO: Supplied

JOHANNESBURG  – The Cape Town council is considering the potential opportunities associated with the night-time economy in the city centre and surrounding areas, mayoral committee member for economic opportunities and asset management James Vos said on Wednesday.

Efforts to grow the night-time economy (NTE) have been gaining traction in some of the world’s most prominent cities, with the concept seen as a catalyst for increasing a city’s attractiveness, developing its cultural offering and creating jobs.

Vos said the city’s enterprise and investment department, the University of Cape Town and the Central City Improvement District (CCID) had formed an NTE working group which had been developing and sharing knowledge.

A study was being planned to determine the potential economic outputs and job creation opportunities offered by the NTE, both directly and indirectly.

“Depending on the results, my team will develop an action plan for implementation consisting of cross-cutting responsibilities. I am confident that the NTE holds the key for economic growth and employment opportunities,” Vos said.

Source: iol.co.za