Document: Laingsburg LED Strategy

The Laingsburg Municipality is the smallest of the four municipalities in the Central Karoo District in terms of population size. It is located approximately 200 km from Cape Town. Laingsburg Municipality includes the town of Laingsburg on the banks of Buffelsriver, the settlements of Matjiesfontein and Konstabel as well as surrounding farmland.

The N1 from Cape Town to Johannesburg bisects the town and helps generate a significant portion of the
town’s income. Despite locational advantages, economic development remains a significant challenge for
Laingsburg Municipality. A large portion of economic activity, especially in the transport sector has been redirected to Cape Town and George, as a result of technological advances in communication and road transport.

Low population density, distance from markets and an arid climate translate into fewer development opportunities as compared to other parts of the Western Cape. A significant proportion of the local community remains marginalised, with limited employment and wealth creation opportunities. The Local Economic Development Strategy for Laingsburg Municipality must address the need generate economic opportunities, in particular for those marginalised in the community.