The Conradie Better Living model is one of seven game changer projects which has been prioritized by the Western Cape Government to improve the lives of citizens in the province through FLISP (Finance Linked Individual Subsidy Programme) by providing affordable housing situated near the main arterial routes and the Mutual and Thornton railway stations in Pinelands. The suburb is best known as the home of Mutual Park, Old Mutual’s large local headquarters.
The R3 billion, 22-hectare development plans for numerous businesses, two affordable private schools, 3 creches, an aspirational convenient retail centre, a business hotel, medical facilities, a doggy day-care, a community centre, a few pocket-parks and, a 22 000 m2 linear park. These amenities will cater to all income and age groups.
“Concor Developments have historically been involved in singular natured developments, ranging from mid to upper market residential blocks to shopping centres and office blocks” comments Mark Schonrock, Property Development Manager.
“This is a first where we are spearheading a long-term development of five to seven years that has multiple phases and every type of property ranging from retail to commercial, hospitality, education and various levels of residential and essentials involving the creation of a new, integrated, affordable neighbourhood – a city for the future!”
Construction on the first 433 residential units started in June 2020 with a scheduled start on the next 288 units bench marked to commence before the end of 2020. The new school and ‘Phase 1’ of the retail centre will closely follow.
The internal bulk infrastructure upgrades are well progressed and are set for completion in the fourth quarter of 2020. All the external roads and intersection upgrades are well underway and due for completion before the first new residents take occupancy at the beginning of 2021.
“We are perfectly poised for easy access into Epping Industria and the Biovac medical node, as well as the planning of a significant amount of new commercial and retail space onsite for residents to enjoy which will also bring numerous job opportunities within the development” says Mark.
In addition to the development of a safe, dedicated, non-motorized transport route and, the planned upgrade of the station itself, the introduction of a future planned MyCiti bus trunk and feeder routes (coming down Jan Smuts drive) will significantly improve mobility into town and around Cape Town.
The development’s urban design and architecture is a joint venture between dhk and Jakupa who were responsible for the creation of the urban form of the development, considering international best practices for new cities while prioritizing public spaces and pedestrians.
“We as a team spent a lot of time (and money) on creating an environment that will be safe, secure and conducive to a vibrant urban realm that fosters a family and young professional environment, offering a range of amenities all within an enjoyable walking distance” says Mark.
Sustainable, green, and safe public spaces are also an important component of the overall development. A few recycling, reuse and environmentally conscious initiatives are in place on site