However early 1988 saw a renewed interest in the Gardens with a project initiated to prepare a preliminary policy framework and conservation plan.
The preparation of various surveys and maps pertaining to structural features, memorial plaques and statues, buildings on the periphery of the Garden, a tree inventory,
assessment of current management and maintenance was commissioned.

A document was produced in March 1994 from this and other studies with the intention of formulating a conservation and management policy for this historic site.

In addition to the working group, a steering committee was formed to provide a forum for communication and broad guidance for the planning process. This committee met from 1989 to 1993.

1. The Company's Garden is surrounded by a dynamic urban environment subject to developmental pressure and change;
2. Development within and on its periphery, can have significant impact on qualities that make the Garden a special, contemporary open space within the City context; and
3. It is important that the City responds (in terms of decisions regarding development and management) to developmental change around and within the Company's Garden, in a consistent and appropriate way.

In March 2001 the urban conservation planner Penny Pistorius was appointed as a sub-consultant to provide conservation input into the master plan and policy framework. Dr Stewart Harris, architectural and space historian, also joined this process. The site was visited several times to inspect and analyse the features, patterns and spaces of the Garden and assess its spatial and heritage values as well as identifying constraints and opportunities for conservation and development.

To make the conservation-related information accessible as an input to the master plan and policy it was necessary to stand alone as an end product, but it serves as an interim resource for, and contribution towards, the landscape master plan and policy report for the Garden. It is entitled, 'The Company's Garden, City of Cape Town - Heritage Audit, October 2001'.

The City of Cape Town sincerely thanks all those who have been instrumental in the improvement and development of the Company's Garden, including the public whose interest has lead to the urgency of our vision to be realised.

Copies of the report are available at the following venues for comment: