High hopes for Newlands North project
The project aims to build new, affordable housing, and bring daily amenities closer to residents, while upgrading the infrastructure.
The Newlands North project, launched in 2019, is seen to breathe new life into the area, while tackling some of the community’s biggest needs.
Covering 27ha, the project has already hit the ground running with earthworks. It is scheduled to be completed in a ten year deadline, divided into seven phases.
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At the centre of it, is a creche, and shops. The idea is to bring daily necessities to the residents, by bringing them closer to schools and everyday amenities, all while improving their quality of life.
One of the key features of the project, is that it plans to use solar energy, and gas for heating, making it non-reliant on the power grid, and ultimately reducing the project’s impact on the planet.
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Ward 86 councillor Chantelle Fourie-Shawe remains optimistic. She says she is hopeful for the development, including the mix of housing options, from upmarket, to more affordable. “I am really excited about the new facilities, like the shopping centres for Sophiatown and Newlands, plus the upgraded roads and infrastructure around the area.”
However, she remains cautious, stating that Johannesburg’s infrastructure is already stretched thin, with maintenance falling behind. “There is a real challenge keeping what infrastructure we have in good shape.”
Fourie-Shawe highlighted the sewage issues in Newlands, which have affected the construction for years, stating there is pressure on the developers, and Johannesburg Water, to fix it entirely.
Fourie-Shawe also addressed concerns around social housing in the development. “At first, I was worried seeing social housing included – not because we do not want it, but because the city has not managed it well in the past,” she explained. “Thankfully, the developers will manage it privately, which is a huge relief. There is even funding to help those who qualify for rent, and most of the units will still be open-market homes.”
The Newlands North project aims to promote positive change, painting a better picture for the residents of Ward 86, and remaining the top priority to provide better services for the future.
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