The Johannesburg Development Agency, together with the Johannesburg Property Company, recently hosted a public meeting to discuss the Paterson Park Precinct Development Plan.
The meeting took place in Orchards and provided residents with an update on some of the initiatives planned within the precinct which will include the development of inclusive housing, a recreation and sports centre and a public park, among others.
Present at the meeting was Noel Hutton, project manager for the Paterson Park Precinct Development Plan, who provided a brief overview of the proposed initiative. “The development plan will see the flagship park incorporate uses that both enhance the public experience as well as the local environment,” he said.
“The plan will also see the opening of channels to create rehabilitation to the Orange Grove Stream from the bowling club to Louis Botha Road.”
Hutton also explained that the proposed plan would see the integration and connectivity by means of enhanced linkages throughout the precinct and explained that the plan has since evolved into the Urban Design Framework. Furthermore, the plan would see the development of a mix of rental and sale units throughout the precinct and the inclusion of a restaurant.
Adding to this was Matt Jackson, on behalf of the agency, who explained that the plan aimed to make the precinct better for those living there and would enhance living opportunities. “The biggest challenge is to link people from where they live to where they work and Louis Botha Avenue will play an integral role in doing that by linking Soweto to Sandton through the inner city,” he said.
“Essentially, through the plan, we’re taking the city and making it more affordable and inclusive for residents.”
Meanwhile, Ward 73 councillor, Mia Snyman, criticised the City for the lack of consultation, citing it as inadequate and inaccurate. “It’s exciting to see new development taking place, but the City should have had a proper consultation and a tribunal where objections will be considered – and this needs to happen soon,” Snyman said. She added that residents needed to get the opportunity to participate and bring input to ensure that anything taking place is according to the plan.
The Paterson Park Development Plan of 2005 is part of the Corridors of Freedom initiative.
Details: www.jda.org.za
