R3.6 billion development set to transform Durban North

The R3.6 billion Beachwood Coastal Estate, heralded as a transformative initiative for the Durban North area, has officially been launched following a series of development hurdles.

Set on an expansive 430 333 square metres of prime beachfront property, the Beachwood development not only promises to elevate the area's skyline but also aims to bring significant ecological rehabilitation and economic upliftment.

Phase 1 of the development will comprise 52 freestanding plots and 37 drive-up three-and four-bedroom apartments, duplex villas, and forest duplexes.

Vacant plots are priced between R6.1 million and R20.675 million, while apartments range from R10.575 million to R16.075 million and duplex villas and forest duplexes are priced from R18.675 million to R25.15 million.

The Beachwood development was given the green light at the end of 2023 by the eThekwini Municipality after an appeal lodged by residents against the development was dismissed.

"This is going to be the iconic development," said Gavin Strydom, one of the developers behind the initiative.

With construction set to start early next year, Strydom conveyed his excitement at finally being able to launch this project after a prolonged journey filled with obstacles.

Earthworks and infrastructure began in February.

"The first lot of transfers should take place by the end of next year. What is important for us is that our purchaser has a memorable, comfortable, safe and good experience.

"It will significantly add land value to the neighbouring properties. This is going to be the iconic development. Safety and security will be enhanced in the entire neighbourhood," said Strydom.

He said millions were spent on the stormwater management and stormwater disposal.

Strydom said they were investing in upgrades to the surrounding infrastructure, including the upgrading of roads and the Durban North potable water reservoir.

He added that public beach access will be retained with new ablution and new public parking facilities.

He said the natural environment and ecological aspects that they have on this site will be better off post development.

"We have dune forests, mangroves, wetlands and 2011 Milkwoods on this site and each one will be protected. We will rehabilitate the dune forest and remove alien vegetation and contribute to the ecological sustainability of the mangrove," said Strydom.

eThekwini mayor, Cyril Xaba, hailed the launch of the development as a historic milestone and another catalytic project that enhances the skyline of Durban North.

"The Beachwood Coastal Estate has a total value of R3.6 billion and forms part of our R217 billion catalytic projects that we are implementing in the period of five years.

"Beachwood Coastal Estate brings a new standard of eco-conscious living to the region, offering freehold stands, large luxurious drive-up apartments, and opulent duplexes," said Xaba.

Xaba said the current rates contribution of the development to the municipality is R3,6 million per annum. Once completed, the rates will increase to approximately R100 million per annum.

Xaba said the benefits of the development extend beyond economic stimulus, adding that the project aims to positively impact the surrounding area by increasing the market value of neighbouring properties, improve safety and enhance the ecosystem around which it is built.

"For the people of KwaZulu-Natal, the development will create 1,500 temporary jobs during construction and create over 2,500 permanent jobs after completion," said Xaba.

He said last year he engaged key property sector players in eThekwini to resolve administrative red tape in development applications.

"I am pleased that together, we are unblocking tedious processes which frustrate investors. Again, this exemplifies how public-private sector interests can align for mutual benefit.

"This year alone, our collaborations have also yielded the R25 billion Sibaya Precinct Development and the R1.5 billion Westown development which is the first phase of the R15 billion Shongweni development," said Xaba.

Rev Musa Zondi, MEC for Economic Development Tourism and Environmental Affairs, welcomed the estate as an ideal opportunity for those seeking luxurious residential options in a safe and inviting environment.

"Those that head major companies and are looking for a safe space to live or have a holiday home this would be an ideal opportunity to invest," said Zondi.

Carol Reynolds, area principal for Pam Golding Properties, said the development will feature a 9-hole signature golf course, along with a golf clubhouse incorporating simulation suites.

"Additional amenities include a wellness centre, spa, gym, clubhouse, indoor pools, pool house, padel and pickleball courts, restaurant and snack bar, co-working spaces, jogging and cycling paths, as well as direct access to the beach via security gates. Security features include three gatehouses with 24/7 manned security; biometric access control; barrier and electric fencing; cameras linked to guardhouses and dedicated estate patrols,” said Reynolds.

She said KwaZulu-Natal is poised to be the next growth node in the residential market in the country.

"We are seeing a lot of interest and shift and focus on our beautiful shores and KwaZulu-Natal is poised for success, largely because of all the development coming into our region, like the Sibaya precinct, Westown and the new Club Med which will be launched next year in Tinley Manor," said Reynolds.

The estate's architect, George Elphick, elaborated on the aesthetic vision for the estate, emphasising a design that is sophisticated and contextually considerate of its coastal surroundings.

"The ultimate vision is one of an exemplary and cohesive collection of well mannered buildings. The design expression is intended to be thoughtful, responsive and entirely of the place.

"The very name beachwood conveys the essence of this place, its unique location set along a magnificent stretch of pristine beach plus coast. And the verdant and rich coastal dune forest with its proliferation of Milkwood trees and the unique mangrove and its biodiversity, being an integral part of the estate’s private environment," said Elphick.

SUNDAY TRIBUNE