History of Edgemead
- Province: Western Cape
- Coordinates 33°52′32″S 18°32′27″E
- Municipality: City of Cape Town
- Area: 4.01 km2
This suburb is in the northern part of Cape Town. It was established in 1972 as one of the Garden Cities of South Africa. Garden Cities managed the layout and environment, so the suburb is notable for trees, wide roads and pleasant spaces with accessible amenities. The concept of “garden cities” was started in England in the late 1800s to build self-contained, well-planned townships with adequate space for parks, schools, churches, etc.
In 1967, negotiations were finalised to acquire a 263-hectare section of the farm Plattekloof, at the foot of the Tygerberg Hills. Additional land was later added, and Edgemead now spans more than 340 hectares. The physical layout was carefully planned, with cul-de-sacs, curved roads, footpaths, and well-placed informal open spaces and playgrounds to create an attractive village feel. In 1972, the first house was sold for R14 945.
To improve the overall streetscape, many houses were linked by walls to keep yards, washlines, refuse bins, and other unsightly elements out of view. Residents strongly supported these and other aesthetic guidelines introduced by Garden Cities. Houses were built adhering strictly to the principles of Garden cities, ie, quality materials, good design, privacy, space for extensions, and attractive exteriors. Houses in here are mostly modern and attractive, with a village/community atmosphere. Children can be seen playing games in the parks and streets and riding to school on skateboards.
Edgemead has two main public schools, a primary school, a high school and pre-schools. The schools are centrally located and easily accessible.
The suburb includes several active faith communities and churches: Nearby suburbs such as Bothasig. and Monte Vista also offer additional denominational options.
Edgemead has a strong community sports culture with well-used facilities. The suburb also offers several parks, greenbelts and recreational areas for walking and outdoor activity
Some of the streets are named after famous artists and an architect. Anton Anrieth, Thomas Bowler and Louis Thibault
The suburb is located in Ward 5, together with the suburb of Bothasig.
The postal codes for Edgemead are 7441 (streets) and 7407 (boxes)
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Things to see and do in Edgemead
- Plattekloof Heritage site.
- The Bend Park Outdoor Gym  The Bend
- Skate park opposite the community hall
Useful Numbers
- Police: 021 559 9400
- Traffic department: Milnerton 021 550 1312
- Fire: Milnerton fire dept; 021 400 6949
- Water: 021 4444 863 Milnerton municipal building Royal Ascot way Milnerton
- Electricity: 0214444863 0860 103 089
- Ambulance: 111 or Rescue Medix 074 173 7283
- SPCA: Cape Town Grassy Park 021 700 4140
- Community Hall Hire. 021 590-1434
- Edgemead Neighbourhood watch enw@edgemead.co.za
- Schools: Edgemead Primary: 0215581007
Edgemead High; 021 558 1132 - Library; 021 444 7352
FAQs
1. Where is Edgemead located?
It is a northern suburb of Cape Town, situated between Goodwood and Bothasig, about 20 minutes from the city centre.
2. What type of suburb is it?
It is a quiet, residential garden suburb known for its tree-lined streets, schools, and strong sense of community.
3. Are there shops and restaurants in Edgemead?
Yes . A Â Village Centre offers supermarkets, takeaways, restaurants, and local services.
4. What schools are in the area?
The suburb has several schools, including a high school and a primary school, both are well-regarded.
5. Is Edgemead safe?
It’s considered one of Cape Town’s well-managed, family-oriented suburbs, with active neighbourhood watch groups and community policing.
6. How do you get to Edgemead?
Access is via the N1 or Plattekloof Road, with easy routes to Century City, Goodwood, and the city centre.
7. Are there parks or outdoor areas?
Yes, there are several parks, play areas, and sports fields maintained by the local council.
8. What public transport options are available?
Golden Arrow buses connect residents to the CBD and neighbouring suburbs.
9. Is Edgemead close to major shopping areas?
Yes it’s a short drive from Canal Walk, N1 City Mall, and Plattekloof Village.
10. Are there community events?
Yes, there are local markets, fairs, and charity events at the community hall and sports grounds.
Adjacent suburbs are: Bothasig, Century City, Goodwood, Montague Gardens, Monte Vista, Panorama and Plattekloof