Judith, I generally love your articles, but urban 'and rural' building developments extend way beyond your normal competence. 
I question your comment of Sea Point Promenade becoming a massive 'parking area and shopping precinct'.... there is talk of an area towards Clifton. Similarly Green Point.... the 'white' elephant is the stadium, owned by Council, but there are many restrictions to developments too. 
There is too much development and leave Philippi Horticultural area alone.... that's where our main market gardens are. 
You make too, too much of cities overseas.... sure there are parks in places, but most people don't live around there as they are too many inhabitants. Travel is expensive too, whether for work, play or tourism. 
These, like Cape Town, battle to make their cities more liveable in every context.

ThomasJ makes some good points below iro Cape Town.