Eastern Seaboard Regional Spatial Development Framework and Masterplan
Planning smart and sustainable coastal cities
Zutari was commissioned by the Municipal Infrastructure Support Agent (MISA) to develop the Eastern SeaBoard Regional Spatial Development Framework (ESRDSF) and the Eastern SeaBoard Regional Master Plan (ESRMP).
Located between the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal Province, this region includes four districts and 17 local municipalities, some of the poorest in the country.
The ESRSDF lays out a spatial framework that emphasises sustainable urban practices. It addresses critical areas such as infrastructure, housing, and economic growth while integrating environmental sustainability as a core focus. By mapping out how the region will evolve, the framework ensures that development is both strategic and forward-thinking.
In complement to the ESRSDF, the Eastern Seaboard Regional Master Plan (ESRMP) details specific projects and timelines that will pave the way for smart urban growth. By detailing actionable steps, the plan ensures that the vision becomes reality, fostering an environment where communities can flourish economically and socially.
The project aligns with the President’s vision of developing post-Apartheid smart cities. Through the work of CoGTA and MISA, the Eastern Seaboard is envisioned as a model for African Coastal Smart Cities, which integrate technology and social needs to create vibrant urban environments.
Paving the way for smart urban growth.
Blueprint for a sustainable, prosperous tomorrow.
At its core, the ESRMP aims to stimulate social, cultural, and economic growth while expediting the necessary infrastructure development. This master plan serves as a guiding tool – providing clarity and direction for future growth. It seeks to integrate seamlessly with existing master plans, ensuring a cohesive development strategy that maximises the potential of the eastern seaboard.
Key components of the ESRMP:
- Identification and allocation of suitable land for priority projects
- Directing development in a sustainable manner
- Strategic infrastructure investment, laying a foundation for communities to thrive
This comprehensive approach recognises that success cannot be measured solely by economic indicators. Instead, it emphasises quality of life, ensuring that as we build and develop, we create spaces that benefit everyone and preserve the region’s unique cultural and environmental heritage. Proving itself as a blueprint for a sustainable, prosperous tomorrow.
*The Aurecon Africa business has been officially renamed Zutari as at 21 July 2020. Zutari acquired Aurecon Middle East on 20 November 2020.
