The areas in the south of the BR are functionally part of the Cape Town Metropolitan area, while other settlements are spatially distinct, as indicated in figure 10.

In 2003 the population within the CWCBR was over 250 000. This population was essentially urban (96% by census definition) and growing rapidly. The southern component of the Biosphere Reserve alone accounts for about 65% of the total population, and contains the main areas of urban expansion plus a number of fast-growing informal settlements. This is the main population driver of the region.

A population projection to 2010 was undertaken, using low, medium and high growth scenarios as indicated below and allowing for differential growth rates between different areas. (Average annual growth rates are low 4.5%, medium 6.5% and high 8.5%). The medium growth scenario results in a total population of the CWCBR of over 430 000 by 2010.

Characteristics of the population

The population of the CWCBR is diverse, with large differences in characteristics between areas and population groups.

The main socioeconomic characteristics of the population

Over 60% of the CWCBR population is younger than 35 years of age.• The average household size in the CWCBR is 3.65, with a range from 2.7 in Milnerton to 6.3 in Malmesbury.

There are enormous disparities in individual income, from R900 per month in Witsand to almost R12400 per month in Melkbosstrand, as indicated in figure 7. (The category “leisure” includes holiday towns — Langebaan, Jakkalsfontein etc).

Unemployment levels range from 3% in the “rural” areas to 54% in Du Noon. There is also a wide range of level of economic activity from 46% in Llinge Lethu to 81% in Witsand.

The main reason for unemployment is the inability to find work, and is given as such in 12% to 82% in the areas in the CWCBR.

Education levels also have a direct bearing on employment and socioeconomic status. The three groups with the highest education levels are also the groups with the highest reported incomes.

Back yard and freestanding informal dwellings are a significant proportion of dwellings in some areas.

Access to services is generally high, but some informal areas do not have access to sanitation or electricity yet.