JSE-listed Growthpoint Properties is moving ahead with the development of the Canopy by Hilton Cape Town Longkloof hotel, which marks the concluding enhancement to the historic Longkloof precinct.

Initially planned for completion towards late 2021, the project was postponed amid a period of uncertainty in South Africa. With a recent surge in tourism in Cape Town, particularly during the typically quiet winter months, and a noticeable upswing in economic activity within the city, Growthpoint deems the present moment ideal to revive the project.

The Western Cape, specifically Cape Town, has exhibited economic resilience, with steady semigration from other parts of South Africa boosting the city's allure for both living and working. This appeal is reflected in Growthpoint's office vacancies, which have notably dropped below 10%, a marked improvement from the national average of 15.8% as recorded in March, demonstrating the city's economic vitality.

International tourism has also rebounded, evident in the increased number of international flights to Cape Town and a consistent influx of tourists year-round. The advantageous exchange rates are expected to boost tourism centres in South Africa, enhancing Cape Town's appeal to international travellers.

The heritage-driven project to rejuvenate the Longkloof Precinct encompasses the refurbishment of several Growthpoint-owned structures, alongside the creation of a charming public space accessible by four entry points.

Growthpoint's vision was to reimagine six historical buildings and a vacant parking lot, including a historic school and industrial building with a boiler room, into a contemporary mixed-use precinct that encapsulates the city's essence in a fresh, heritage-respecting manner.

The plans were meticulously developed over several years before commencing in 2019, leading to the completion of most elements in 2021, except for the hotel. This resulted in sought-after offices primarily occupied by entrepreneurial, tech, and marketing-focused companies.

A key feature of the precinct is the 150-room Canopy by Hilton Cape Town Longkloof Hotel, the first of its kind in Africa. It opens onto the public yard, featuring curated ground-level retail. The integration of the former MLT House's facade, preserving its historical significance, adds character to the hotel's design.

Growthpoint Western Cape regional asset manager Timothy Irvine emphasises that the decision to delay construction owing to economic uncertainty was apt, but market conditions now signal the right time to resume. He believes the hotel will harmonise with the precinct's diverse uses and tenancies.

The precinct hosts tech-oriented, entrepreneurial businesses, including the expanding Workshop 17 situated at 32 on Kloof, the precinct's first renovated building that opened in August 2019. The Refinery, a historic Herbet Baker-designed school building, underwent modernisation. The Darter Studio and Threshers Studio buildings were revamped to create connected office spaces, attracting creative and tech enterprises.

With nearly 17 000 m² of available space in Longkloof, of which about 16 600 m² is occupied, the public yard serves as a central space accessible to all, exemplifying socialisation and connection. The addition of a new coffee shop, Vine & Dandy, enlivens the space further.

Irvine believes that the Canopy by Hilton hotel's completion and operation will enhance the precinct's appeal. With meticulous consideration for parking requirements, an additional 150 underground parking bays bolster the precinct's attractiveness.

Nestled on Cape Town's renowned Kloof street, the Longkloof Precinct boasts a unique character and culture, and rich history.

“Introducing Canopy by Hilton, a hotel that is unique in Africa, to the revitalised Longkloof Precinct is the . . . final finishing touch to the new dynamic that Growthpoint has created to be a perfect fit for this unique neighbourhood,” Irvine says.