ABSTRACT
Introduction The major social and environmental consequences that stem from the structure and form of South African cities suggest that the current pattern of urban development is entirely unsustainable, and that urban compaction is an essential condition for improved urban performance. However, compaction is not a sufficient condition-it needs to be accompanied by substantial urban restructuring. Furthermore, directed residential infill, which is a primary policy instrument for achieving greater compaction, cannot be applied ubiquitously-it needs to be used to reinforce positive structural change. The case of a recent plan for the City of Cape Town is used to show one way in which this restructuring can be achieved and how infilling can be directed with the greatest benefit. Some of the major obstacles which need to be overcome, if greater urban compaction is to become a reality in South Africa, are identified.
