Industrial Property in Atlantis – Prime Space for Manufacturing and Logistics
Atlantis is a well-established industrial town located approximately 40 km north of Cape Town. Originally developed during the 1970s as a government-driven initiative to decentralise industry from the Cape Town CBD, Atlantis has grown into a resilient industrial node. Today, it’s recognised for its strong manufacturing base, affordable industrial property, and strategic location within the Western Cape.
The area is home to over 150 factories and plays a vital role in Cape Town’s broader industrial ecosystem. With zoning allocations across Industrial 1, 2, and 3, it caters to a wide range of heavy, light, and mixed-use industrial operations. It’s also part of the City of Cape Town’s priority economic development zones, ensuring continued infrastructure investment.
Business Landscape
Atlantis is known for its manufacturing and engineering strength, particularly in:
- Green technology and renewable energy (primarily wind turbine components)
- Automotive parts manufacturing
- Food processing
- Clothing and textile production
- Steel fabrication
Key employers include GRI South Africa (a global wind turbine component manufacturer), and a cluster of SMMEs supporting larger manufacturers. The Atlantis Special Economic Zone (ASEZ) has played a pivotal role in attracting investment and facilitating industrial growth, particularly in green technology industries.
Why do businesses choose Atlantis? Affordable land and rentals, access to skilled and semi-skilled labour, and targeted government incentives make it a prime choice for industrial operations.
Location & Accessibility
Atlantis is strategically located with direct access to the R304 and R307, which link to the N7 highway - a major freight route connecting Cape Town to Namibia. The Port of Cape Town is approximately 50 km away, making it viable for export-focused operations.
Cape Town International Airport is roughly 60 km away (around 50–60 minutes by road), accessible via the N7 and M7. This connectivity ensures efficient logistics for air cargo and executive travel.
Nearby industrial zones include:
- Montague Gardens – for last-mile logistics
- Killarney Gardens – for light industrial and warehousing
- Paarden Eiland – for port-proximate industrial needs
Lifestyle and Staff
While Atlantis is an industrial node, staff and business owners benefit from several surrounding amenities:
- Atlantis City Mall offers groceries, retail outlets, and fast food chains.
- Nearby Table View, Melkbosstrand, and Durbanville offer lifestyle residential options for executives and senior staff.
- Public and private schools serve the local community.
- Regular minibus taxi routes and Golden Arrow buses provide access to and from Cape Town and surrounding areas.
Collaborative workspaces aren’t a strong feature in Atlantis itself, but proximity to Century City and Durbanville (within 40–50 minutes) offers access to co-working and networking venues.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Atlantis has a robust industrial infrastructure:
- Reliable electricity with upgrades aligned to renewable manufacturing needs.
- Water supply bolstered by sustainable reuse projects and desalination support from the city.
- Atlantis Industrial Area and the ASEZ offer large-format stands, wide roads for truck access, and bulk service capacity.
- Fibre connectivity is available in key zones, supporting administrative operations and security systems.
- Local logistics companies support warehousing, distribution, and freight handling.
Commercial/Industrial Property Trends
As of Q2 2024:
- Average warehouse rentals are around R45–R65/m², making Atlantis one of the most affordable industrial nodes in the Western Cape.
- Large freestanding factories, mid-sized warehouses, and zoned vacant land are available.
- Vacancy rates remain below 5%, reflecting healthy demand.
Typical properties include:
- Heavy industrial facilities with cranes and high-power availability
- Light manufacturing spaces with roller shutter doors and yard access
- Warehousing units with ample truck turning circles
Zoning & Development
Atlantis offers three zoning categories:
- Industrial 1 – General industrial use
- Industrial 2 – Noxious and heavy industry
- Industrial 3 – Light and mixed-use industrial
The Atlantis SEZ focuses on green manufacturing and has attracted multiple investors through tax incentives and reduced utility costs.
Planned developments include:
- New land parcels within the SEZ
- Upgraded road surfaces and stormwater systems
- Future public transport upgrades to improve mobility
Advantages of Operating in This Area
Top reasons businesses choose Atlantis:
- Low industrial property rentals and operating costs
- Access to skilled labour from Atlantis, Cape Town, and surrounding areas
- SEZ incentives for manufacturers in renewable energy and green industries
- Proximity to Cape Town and key logistics routes
- Availability of large industrial stands and space for custom builds
Challenges or Considerations
Atlantis presents great value, but there are a few things to weigh:
- Limited high-end amenities in the immediate area (but easily accessible in Table View or Durbanville)
- Public transport is improving, but still reliant on minibus taxis and limited bus routes
- Security is essential – many properties have 24/7 guards and perimeter fencing
Atlantis is a strategic industrial hub offering value, space, and opportunity - especially for businesses in manufacturing, warehousing, and logistics. With infrastructure geared for heavy industrial use, access to skilled labour, and significant investment in the SEZ, Atlantis is ideal for businesses seeking cost-effective expansion in the Western Cape.
To view available industrial properties in Atlantis or speak with a local expert, contact us at Anvil Property Smith.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What types of industrial properties are available in Atlantis?
Atlantis offers everything from heavy manufacturing plants to light industrial units and large logistics warehouses. Custom-built options are also possible in the SEZ.
2. What is the average rental rate for warehouses in Atlantis?
Rental rates typically range from R45/m² to R65/m², depending on the size, condition, and location within the area.
3. Is Atlantis part of a Special Economic Zone (SEZ)?
Yes, the Atlantis SEZ focuses on green manufacturing and offers tax incentives, discounted services, and streamlined municipal support.
4. How far is Atlantis from Cape Town International Airport?
Atlantis is approximately 60 km from the airport, reachable in around 50–60 minutes via the N7 and M7 highways.
5. What industries are active in Atlantis?
Atlantis supports manufacturing, food processing, textiles, engineering, and the production of renewable energy components.
6. Are there good amenities for staff in the area?
Yes, there are shopping centres, supermarkets, and takeaway outlets. Nearby residential areas offer schooling and healthcare.
7. Is Atlantis well-connected to major transport routes?
Absolutely. Atlantis is close to the N7, which connects to Cape Town and Namibia, and is a short drive from the port and airport.
8. What zoning options are available?
The area includes Industrial 1, 2, and 3 zoning, covering a wide range of industrial activities from light assembly to heavy manufacturing.
9. What is the vacancy rate for industrial property in Atlantis?
Vacancy rates are below 5%, indicating strong demand and a stable industrial property market.
10. What support is available for new businesses setting up in Atlantis?
Through the Atlantis SEZ and City of Cape Town, businesses can access infrastructure grants, development support, and streamlined application processes.
To view available properties or speak with a local expert, contact us at Anvil Property Smith.
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