Residents voice their vision for Miller’s Point's future

Nearly 500 residents have shared their views on the future of Miller’s Point, sending a clear message to the City: leave the character of the coastal site largely as it is, but improve essential services and access.

The survey, conducted by the City’s Coastal Management branch, ran in November 2025 and included residents, visitors, stakeholders, and interested parties.

Of the 490 respondents, 25% said they visit Miller’s Point weekly, while nearly half visit at least once a month.

Most said they value the site for leisure, conservation, and its unique marine and cultural environment.

“We are blown away by the huge interest residents showed in this survey. Clearly, this area is very close to visitors’ hearts,” said mayoral committee member for spatial planning and environment, Eddie Andrews.

“The far majority do not want fancy additions or changes, but simply want us to improve or repair what is already there, and to address universal access so that those who have special needs or use wheelchairs can also visit with ease.”

Miller’s Point is a 300m-wide strip of land that forms a transition zone between the UNESCO World Heritage site of Table Mountain National Park and the Table Mountain Marine Protected Area.

It is home to a tidal pool, campsite, beach, public boat launch, and shell middens that reveal the area’s indigenous history.

However, the site faces serious challenges. Infrastructure is deteriorating, pathways are eroded, visitor facilities are inadequate, and historic buildings require restoration.

Respondents to the survey highlighted the need for safe and universally accessible walkways, improved security, waste management, and better traffic control for boats.

When asked about timelines and budget for upgrades, Mr Andrews said the project is still at an early stage.

“We are now working on developing the long-term vision and scoping of what is possible at Miller’s Point. We will undertake further consultations with stakeholders before the vision is finalised. Only thereafter will the City acquire the necessary budget, and then the improvements will be implemented in phases, starting by 2031, if all goes as planned.”

Balancing Miller’s Point’s ecological and heritage sensitivity with visitor improvements will be a priority, Mr Andrews said.

“The City is committed to the sensitive restoration of Miller’s Point by prioritising the adaptive re-use of heritage buildings and restricting infrastructure to previously disturbed areas,” he said.

Balancing Miller’s Point’s ecological and heritage sensitivity with visitor improvements will be a priority, Mr Andrews said.

“The City is committed to the sensitive restoration of Miller’s Point by prioritising the adaptive re-use of heritage buildings and restricting infrastructure to previously disturbed areas,” he said.

He added that formalising pedestrian routes will help protect vulnerable vegetation and shell middens, while making the site universally accessible and able to cope with high visitor numbers.

Mr Andrews explained that a minimal-impact design approach will support ecological conservation, provide well-maintained public amenities, and ensure the coastal environment remains protected for everyone.

The revitalisation programme is intended to promote socio-economic benefits, preserve cultural heritage, protect biodiversity, and optimise commercial and educational opportunities.

Mr Andrews said the survey results provide clear guidance on how residents and stakeholders use the site, and will help the City enhance its full potential for future generations.

Further consultations with communities, stakeholders, and the public will continue as the City completes the scoping phase and develops its long-term vision.