...Johannesburg *Discussion* [ARCHIVED #1] [Archive] - Page 4

romanSA

April 10th, 2007, 02:52 PM

Hi Jo'burgers. This sounds exciting...

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Jo'burg's Latino Gaubus

Lloyd Gedye

08 April 2007 11:59

A map showing the main arteries of the new rapid transport system, set to be in place by April 2009
Never mind the Gautrain, here’s the Rea Vaya rapid bus transport system at only a fraction of the cost.

The city of Johannesburg has already begun implementation of its plans for a revolutionary new R2-billion bus system that will run every three to 10 minutes in dedicated bus lanes.

The bus rapid transport (BRT) system, which is expected to be up and running around April 2009, is based on similar transport initiatives that have been successfully implemented in Latin America.

Johannesburg’s Executive Director of Transport, Bob Stanway, says the city is following the business model used to implement the TransMilenio BRT system in Bogota, Colombia, where existing taxi and bus operators are incorporated into the new companies that supply the rapid bus service.

The first phase of the BRT system is made up of six new routes covering 96km of Johannesburg’s roads.

Routes will run from Lenasia to Sunninghill; Alexandra to Regina Mundi; Dobsonville to Troyeville; Nasrec to Ellis Park; Randburg to the CBD and on an inner city circle route.

Buses will run in exclusive, dedicated lanes in the centre of existing roads, with 150 stations situated about 500m apart.

“They will operate like a mini train station,” says Stanway. “They will be high-speed, high-frequency, low- fare buses with easy boarding and alighting.”

Buses will either be 65- or 160-seaters and will operate from 5am in the morning till midnight.

Stanway says the system will integrate with a number of feeder systems and also with the Gautrain, and that the fare systems for all transport modes will be smart card-based, which will make this integration seamless.

He says the plan is to offer a number of park-and-ride facilities to encourage vehicle drivers to get out of their cars, especially in the northern suburbs of Johannesburg, where vehicle density is very high.

Stanway says the original strategic public transport network plan had been for special curbside lanes for buses and taxis, but during a review of the policy in August last year, the city’s transport department realised that it needed a more substantial intervention, in the form of the BRT.

“For the business model we are following the examples of Latin America where, in a number of cities, they managed to convince the previous bus and taxi operators to join forces,” says Stanway. “In some of their corridors they have exactly the same problem as Johannesburg with thousands of taxis and busses all chasing passengers, and it’s just chaos.”

Stanway says the idea would be to incorporate bus and taxi operators into the company that delivers the new rapid bus service.

“They have been able to work with the taxis drivers and owners, to have a partnership with them, whereby they agree to move towards a full bus rapid transit and they would then have a contract to provide these services on a vehicle kilometer basis,” says Stanway. “They just have to provide buses on time, at high frequencies and at a high service level.”

“In Jo’burg, at the moment, we have 72% of public transport made up by mini-bus taxis, so if you took the Yellow route, for example, then there would be a yellow bus route company that might comprise 72% taxi and 28% bus operators contracted to provide the service,” says Stanway.

Stanway says the BRT system will integrate with the taxi recapitalisation programme, so that taxi owners can use the money to invest in buses to be used to roll out the rapid bus services.

However, Stanway says consultation with the bus and taxi operators has only just recently begun and although the city has had some “useful consultations”, they are quite far from reaching an agreement.

Stanway says the city is in the fortunate position of having secured most of the R2-billion funding for the project already.

He says the project has received almost R1-billion in funding over the next three years through a project run by the national department of transport and treasury to provide infrastructure for the 2010 Soccer World Cup.

Stanway says the city is also providing a substantial amount of the required budget as well as a significant share of the R29-million operating costs that are required.

He says the balance will be provided through a grant from an EU country that is almost secured and through the Clinton Foundation, which is sponsoring the project in line with their climate change initiatives.

http://www.mg.co.za/articlePage.aspx?articleid=303979&area=/insight/insight__economy__business/

Jakes1

April 10th, 2007, 03:41 PM

Ponte City to be 'dramatically refurbished'
Sheena Adams
April 05 2007 at 11:35AM

It put Joburg on the map in the esoteric world of iconic architecture. Now Ponte City is expected to take its stylish image to new heights.

The cylindrical tower in Hillbrow is apparently being sold to film producer David Selvan, who - along with his business partner Nour Addine Ayyob - is said to be in final negotiations to buy the 30-year-old building.

Even though Ponte's history has been steeped in infamy as a drug den, it once commanded artistic spreads in international publications.

Now the reported sale is swathed in mystery.

'One of the city's most stylish addresses'
Queries about the reported R95-million deal have elicited an angry response from the Kempston Group, which has refused to confirm it. It is believed that financial details have yet to be fully ironed out.

Selvan told The Star on Wednesday that the deal with the Kempston Group was finalised on Monday, paving the way for the unique Joburg landmark to be "dramatically refurbished".

However, the two parties were currently finalising a "full legal agreement" outlining terms in the purchase and sale documents believed to include strict measures about the leases of hundreds of tenants and measures to ensure that Selvan and Ayyob can begin refurbishing the structure before the transfer goes through.

But on the other side, Kempston's Jason Kruger - who runs the private portfolio of the group's head Tony Cotterell - said The Star would be "running a large risk" of being sued for publishing details of the sale.

"I can't believe he has said that. I cannot comment further," was all Kruger would say.

'The beginnings of an ambitious design dream'
Selvan appears to harbour no such reservations and said he and Ayyob would be "going out on a limb" with their rejuvenation plans.

Selvan has had Ponte City in his line of sight, literally, from his 12th floor, inner-city office for the past year - and says buying the cylindrical structure marks the beginnings of an ambitious design dream.

The clever use of light-refracting mirrors down the middle of the building, luxurious finishes and "radical changes" to the 467 flats are being discussed.

The building, completed in 1976, was one of the city's most stylish addresses for more than a decade before Hillbrow lost its allure and became famous instead for drug dealers and pimps.

First up on the refurbishment plans is likely to be the replacement of the decades-old lifts, at an estimated R9-million. Selvan has reportedly involved the building's original engineers and architects.

Sources told The Star that Cotterell entertained an offer of R15-million for the 54-storey block four years ago, and that the escalation in the building's value bodes well for the nearby Ellis Park precinct. The Johannesburg Development Agency unveiled plans in February to spend R2-billion on an upgrade programme ahead of the 2010 World Cup.

waltjie

April 10th, 2007, 03:53 PM

THE City has received an overwhelming response to its request for a partner to establish a citywide broadband network.

A total of 24 submissions were received in the request for information (RFI) stage of the Joburg Broadband Network Project (JBNP); the deadline for submissions was 30 March.

Of these, a shortlist of suitable candidates will be compiled which will be asked to build demonstration networks to showcase their technology, operational and project management skills.

The RFI process aims to identify a suitable partner that will not only bring the required funding, but will also have the skills to manage a telecommunications and information technology infrastructure business based on open standards.

"We are thrilled by the high level of interest reflected by the numerous RFI responses and we believe that the success of the JBNP depends on the continued interest and contribution of the private sector," says Douglas Cohen of the City's Department of Economic Development.

Johannesburg intends to develop a citywide broadband network in line with international trends in municipal broadband deployment.

Broadband refers to a telecommunications system in which a wide band of frequencies is able to transmit information. It allows more information to be exchanged faster, and at a lower cost. It is mainly used for internet access, but it is also used to transmit television signals, at call centres, for telephone communications and in business.

The aim of the R500-million JBNP is to bring down telecommunications costs for the City; it will also help to increase the availability and accessibility of telecommunications to improve service delivery, education and economic development.

Such a network is also vital to cater for Joburg's needs leading up to the 2010 Fifa Soccer World Cup and the anticipated demand for telecommunications at that time.

The successful bidder is expected to be appointed by the end of the year.

joburg

April 10th, 2007, 10:37 PM

A map showing the main arteries of the new rapid transport system, set to be in place by April 2009
Never mind the Gautrain, here’s the Rea Vaya rapid bus transport system at only a fraction of the cost.

Yep it's been in the pipeline for a while now. Seems like quite a competent dude setting it up, so hopefully it will work. Just worried about the taxis. One cannot underestimate the power they hold over the city strongly enough.

I'll create a thread for it sometime soon when I have the time...

The cylindrical tower in Hillbrow is apparently being sold to film producer David Selvan, who - along with his business partner Nour Addine Ayyob - is said to be in final negotiations to buy the 30-year-old building.

I wonder what will be happening to the existing tenants? I'm assuming their leases will simply come to an end and they'll either be kicked out or forced to buy.

Jakes1

April 12th, 2007, 12:58 PM

I have a friend that is a pilot for virgin atlantic. They always stay in Sandton, and when he got here over the weekend he complained to me because Sandton is so new and "bland." So I decided to spice up his day and took him for a trip in the CBD (away from the sterile north).

He loved it! We had a wee walkaround, the CBD was busy, mostly clean (apart from the occasional trash, nothing we don't ever see in the North) and we felt entirely safe. He actually said he feels more at home in the CBD than in Sandton, because of the history (his own words? The place feels lived-in). And then I realised for the first time what we came so close to losing entirely.

The CBD has massive tourism potential. Even the less gentrified areas impressed him, because he loved the mix of Africa and Europe. We think tourists only want nice, bland, unimaginative European recreations, but I think that most of them actually enjoy our unique blend! We walked in Newtown, in the southwest (of course, which he loved) and even around the high court and small street. The area has growing potential, and if we can keep it safe (I really did not feel threatened once, neither did he) tourists will love it. Because that is Jozi, that is our history, and it is a proud one. The buildings are amazing! Castle mansions, Markhams, Library hotel, City Hall, the Barbican, Chamber of mines, Aston Mansions, Corner House - amazing amazing history! And many of these buildings are in pretty good shape. The Barbican looks sad and forlorn, but at least the Post office is getting a make-over.

Newtown needs to shape up even more, it is the only area that really does not feel as safe and clean as other areas. The new anglo office is going to rock. Sci-bono is busy building. The area around the franklin and diamond building has amazing potential as a street cafe area (especially with those lovely two storey buildings). And I don't think you need to remove all the spazas and chinese and african muti shops. Tourists love them, and if we remove them all we will only have another cape town. Jozi is not Cape Town, and will never be. Our city centre will never be a gentrified oasis. The reality of South Africa is seen in Jozi centre - but I am sure here the upmarket European vibe can meet the African upmarket vibe, and the two can blend (throw in a bit of Eastern spice, and you can get as excited as I am getting).

I am falling in love with the city centre every time I go there, and for the first time I realized that it does not need to be a stuffy, gentrified, Victorian lady. Jozi can be anything she wants to be. She is at times a social butterfly, other times she can be a whore. She wears her African dress with pride, and just sometimes you can catch a glimpse of her Victorian lace undergarments.

Man, this place has a vibe that gets you going! And it is sad that we traded her real heart (the CBD) for an artificial, not really safer north. No wonder us Jozi people sometimes feel we miss something. We miss her. The reality that we chose to forget, and substituted with faux tuscan. I hope it is a reality that we will once again remember. One to be proud of, in spite of its rough edges.

mike2005

April 12th, 2007, 01:55 PM

Mellville now is kinda like long street was in 1999. Still cool but with a hint of seedyness and with big question marks about saftey. The problem is once articles and rumours start to circulate it can really damage a suberb esp in Jozi where peple fall out of love with areas very quickly. I think Mellville is ripe for a city improvement district like in Green Point/ CT CBD and Sea Point. Without that I dont think the future of mellville is very bright. With such a scheme one only has to take a stroll around the once seedy green point to see what an amaxzing impact improvement districts can have.

waltjie

April 12th, 2007, 02:52 PM

dysan1

April 12th, 2007, 10:44 PM

Jakes1

April 13th, 2007, 10:17 AM

Regards the Ponte piece...

How can they think they can just toss the tenants out? do they not realise the city council has had major problems trying to the same in other buildings? You cant just toss someone out their home.

On the piece about inner city jozi. Yarrick you are a true optimist. jozi needs more people that will frequent that area. Most people i know up there have never even been near the cbd, let alone into it or walk around. it will turn around, IF enough of a wave amongst the people of the city can be created. without a major city wide support many things can be still born. so start thinking of ways to drum up support

They will most definately not be able just to toss the tenants out. But obviously there are leasing agreements - remember, ponte is run by trafalgar now and as far as I know they only rent out apartments. So all tenants have rental contracts - it is not the same as many of the cities illegally operated buildings ran by slum lords.

Concerning the CBD -a lot of people are working to make it better - and it is better every time you go there. Its the same with durban's cbd, and pretoria's, and pe's - people don't want to go there because of perceived risk - while in the meantime, our suburbs can be even more unsafe. Plus, for most cushy suburban SA's anything remotely resembling Afro-Euro jazz frightenes their nickers off. Why do people in Durban hang out in newly built areas, but not the historical centre? Why do we do the same in Jozi? Because we are afraid. 800 000 people move through the city centre every day - it is not empty, dead or sterile (ANYTHING BUT!). Suburbanites find the city too real - we prefer pre-fab, boring, new, faux finished "stylish" places. I don't know if this mindset will change. Those that would wish jozi, durban and pretoria to gentrify before returning - make yourself ready to never return. But in Maputo I realised that an area can embrace both. And you know what, suburbia is the same all over the world. Most people that i met in the suburbs of America regard NYC and LA and San Fran as dangerous. Why go there if you have a Woolies around your corner?

our city centres contain within them a lot of history. history than we cannot erase. History that areas such as Menlyn, Sandton, Fourways, Century City, Umhlanga will never have. More and more are starting to realise this. And I tell you now, I feel safer in Ghandi square than I do in many other suburban spots in jozi.

In 20 years time, which city will be better, Dubai or Barcelona? Barcelona has an architectural heritage, a willingness to link architecture to human social needs. Open space, art, beautifully conceived buildings that make you think. Dubai? High-rise after high-rise, making humans feel totally insignificant. And in 20years the kitch design elements in those monstrosities will become even more aparant. I know you can't compare the two cities, because they differ in size and in operation. But just adding this as a thought. Sometimes an entire new city cannot replace the wonderful history - no matter how Grand and Big and Blah they wish to be. A ugly highrise will scar the city more than anything else. Think of Pyonyang's 105 storey concrete bunker!

Developers are too lazy at times to take the time to reinvent the old, so they build what sells at a particular time. We are left with consumerist architecture. Architecture that means nothing, apart from the fact that it was a la mode at some stage. Why is soviet architecture so vile between the 50's and 80's? Buildings were made to be huge, to show mastery, not to include humans. They were made to be functional, maximising space - not to suit human needs. And how does this differ from modern consumerist dubai-esque architecture? Maximising space, while at the same time ensuring that your building is big and imposing -to out-do your neighbour. Its like the NYC sky-race of the 30's on steroids. The goal is thus not to build a building that will be of lasting significance. Rather to build something that will add to your coffers. The only difference between soviet and consumerist architecture is that the latter needs to bling up their designs so that it will create a hype that will make us think we want to live there.

South African cities are following developers, we allow them to shape our dreams. And we try to recreate a lost history. We lost our South African history in joburg because we chose to leave the CBD (thank God for those who return). Today many in jozi subsitute that lost history with a faux history - tuscany, provance, bali.

My arguments are all over the place - and it is my opinion, and i am quite opinionated. Obviously there are flaws in my argument... But maybe it made you think just a bit?

Jakes1

April 13th, 2007, 10:19 AM

I am currently involved with the inner-city summit meetings - as a side-line to my civil society work. Interesting stuff. But I agree with you dysan, we need to get more support for our cbd's, not only jozi but the rest as well.

joburg

April 16th, 2007, 10:57 AM

They will most definately not be able just to toss the tenants out. But obviously there are leasing agreements - remember, ponte is run by trafalgar now and as far as I know they only rent out apartments. So all tenants have rental contracts - it is not the same as many of the cities illegally operated buildings ran by slum lords.

They are tossing them out. I know someone who lives on the 22nd floor, and Trafalgar has given her notice to vacate by the end of the month. She thinks they're turning the place into a hotel. She wasn't too bothered about it though. I think she supports it in the greater interest of the WC. And so she's simply going to find another place in Hillbrow.

joburg

April 16th, 2007, 11:00 AM

Zonki'zizwe is back on the table...

http://www.moneyweb.co.za/mw/action/media/downloadFile?media_fileid=847

http://www.moneyweb.co.za/mw/view/mw/en/page47?oid=86130&sn=Detail

First phase of the development is valued at R6bn.

The Gautrain station at Midrand will probably be integrated into the development.

"It has been reported that Zonk'Izizwe will include Africa's largest shopping centre.

According to the SA Council of Shopping Centres, the country's largest malls include Sandton City (excluding Nelson Mandela Square) in Johannesburg, Gateway in Umhlanga and Canal Walk in Cape Town.

The retail area of these super centres are around 125 000 m2 each.

Wiltshire noted that Zonk'Izizwe was not a super regional shopping centre but a new mixed-use town centre, which would be compared to similar developments such as the V&A Waterfront and Century City in Cape Town and Melrose Arch in Johannesburg.

Construction is expected to start by the end of this year and the first phase is forecast to open in 2010. "

hsark

April 17th, 2007, 02:33 PM

wow! its a really hetic project there a couple of high-rises one of my lectures did the rendering ill see if i can get more from him .....wonder how much the gautrain is going to add 2 jhb as a whole

mike2005

April 21st, 2007, 06:44 PM

I was shopping in fourways the other day and this massive gunfight errupted all around! It was crazy!

On a good note I then went to take a look at montecasino (have not been since all the new stuff has been added) and it was superb! Its soooo Joburg (ie: way over the top) but very well done.

joburg

April 22nd, 2007, 02:31 PM

Is it Rome?
Is it Florence?
NO! It's Fourways!

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/222/465993669_0ee3e2c1d5.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/221/465993667_187630a1ff.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/171/465993665_a38b2a408a.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/212/465993663_ad3ac15f42.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/176/465993659_de24a31aae.jpg

Actually I shouldn't be so harsh on it. The area has a nice vibe to it, and at least it doesn't have fake blue skies, but is open to the Joburg sky. And it's got some nice restaurants too. And the musical fountain is pretty cute, and it's especially cute when it's screaming out Monte's slogan, "life is beaaaauuutiful."

here without you

April 22nd, 2007, 03:26 PM

nice thread :okay:
take a look at vip cars in morocco
http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=465919

and moroccan arab african first super car
http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=465739

dysan1

April 22nd, 2007, 10:36 PM

I was shopping in fourways the other day and this massive gunfight errupted all around! It was crazy!

said so calmly as if it was nothing abnormal.

mike2005

April 22nd, 2007, 10:47 PM

Hahaha well it was a bit of a suprise but I hit the floor pretty sharpish so it was ok!!!! And in Jozi I guess that sadly it is not perhaps as abnormal as we would like it to be!But I firmly believe that the problem will be tackled by the new ANC leadership as there no defo seems to be the political will to do something esp in Gauteng (but then I guess in GP it is way more of a problem thna in the rest of the country) The april 6th article on crime in the Financial Mail was really interesting and it showed that something can and is being done if everyone takes ownership themselves and does not just wait for politicians to do something.

On a more interesting note as for the new monte:

despite myself I really liked it even tho I wanted to hate it. I will defo be going back for an evening meal next week when Im back in Jozi.

I love how now Jozi has Melrose Arch, Mandela Sq and now Monte for superb evening outdoor dining with a town square vibe.

Martsbra

April 23rd, 2007, 08:03 AM

See that restaurant in the 2nd pic of joburgs post with the white tents?
Every other restaurant was full (ish) except for hers.
I told the lady there to change her lighting (it was a cold blue light)
Its getting close to winter, so theres no way in hell people want to go somewhere that looks like ice. Unless they like the cold...
use it/lose it.Their restaurant would be better in sandton or something like that...

OH and the music is way too loud when the fountain comes to life.
-Your dinner starts vibrating like in Jurassic Park! (ok not that bad..)
but u struggle to hear what the person is saying to you across the table!
and you hear this bell ringing from the bell tower and the bell is stationary-so it lacks a bit of authenticity there..

But on the whole its 8/10!
but i would have preferred to see more glass used in the design to make it a bit more classy

Jakes1

April 23rd, 2007, 11:42 AM

Some Sandton news. OK - Joburg took pictures - but he hasn't uploaded them yet... But around Sandton City there are currently 7 cranes: Two building the massive Apartent buildings (around 16 storeys), three working on the Place (up to eight floors now), and one working on a minor office block that looks to be 6 or 7 floors. Good news is that in this area a lot of groundwork is currently done for other buildings, so more cranes will follow.

Then, we have two cranes working on the refurb of an old shopping centre down the street in Graystone (3 - 4 floors). Further down the Graystone is topping out, with two cranes at 14 floors. Another two cranes are busy at the Sunset towers, set to be 12 floors. Two new cranes next to Investec, they are working on something big. Two cranes next to the Mcdonald's, the building is rising from the basement.

One crane at the Mushroom Farm Park Gautrain hole. Two cranes working on the ever rising Sandton Isle. And two cranes working on the new holiday inn next to Village walk (up to 4/5 floors now, and judging by the pillars it is going to be a few floors when completed).

So, in an afternoon walk through sandton (yes, we walked!) a total of more than 20 cranes. Joburg has a few pics, pressure him to get them on!

HirakataShi

April 23rd, 2007, 12:41 PM

So wonderful to see all these new developments in South Africa.

Jakes1

April 23rd, 2007, 12:54 PM

Guys! how did we miss the demolition of the 7storey babcock building in sandton yesterday? Apparently Babcock will build something new in its place! So another one bites the dust...

Durbsboi

April 23rd, 2007, 02:09 PM

Oh cool, the Montes extension is complete, will deff be going there when I go up in July.

lol, the way Mike described his ordeal is like that advert where the lady is looking at the glass jar's & popped out the cork & everyone eith took out a gun or dropped to the floor, then carried on like nothing happen :lol:

mike2005

April 23rd, 2007, 05:48 PM

hahhaha yup it was a bit like that ad!! was that for an nternet shopping site I seem to remember? I carried on with my shopping tho cos I was darned if I was going to let such scum ruin what was in the end a very nice day.

mike2005

April 23rd, 2007, 05:50 PM

P.S like you guys have been saying Joburg is MENTAL with cranes at the moment. I dont think I have ever seen as much stuff going up in Jozi. Its so great and shows that the future of Jozi is sooo exciting.

SA BOY

April 24th, 2007, 09:05 AM

tom get the pics up brudda, wanna see joburgs version of the boom

Jakes1

April 24th, 2007, 10:42 AM

tom get the pics up brudda, wanna see joburgs version of the boom

Do I pick up a tinge of sarcasm? hehe

SA BOY

April 24th, 2007, 01:15 PM

not at all mate, when I hear of 20 cranes in Sandton I cringe to think there was like 1 when I lived in joeys
wish there were more in the city

Jakes1

April 24th, 2007, 01:40 PM

And more cranes on the way... Quite a lot of ground work going around everywhere. The Gautrain will impact these denser nodes greatly.

joburg

April 27th, 2007, 01:21 PM

These are the photos I took on my walk around Sandton with Yarrick the Bean (Jakes1).

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/197/474361163_cb6b2ca569.jpg

The Place at 1 Sandton Drive. The site is huge (extends all the way up the hill) and will house the US Consulate, amongst others.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/184/474361159_6e25c60388.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/229/474361157_da81700923.jpg

The above two are arbitrary construction sites. I don't know what they're building.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/220/474361155_02cba92be4.jpg

The two cranes to the left are building something. Dunno what.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/230/474361153_082aa6321e.jpg

Sandown Towers in the distance, almost done.

There are many more cranes arounds.. and a lot more construction! We didn't capture it all.

joburg

April 27th, 2007, 01:45 PM

And here's a video i took of Monte Casino's new musical fountains... a little cheesy, perhaps, but fun nevertheless..

I can't figure out how to embed, so I'm just going to post a link to it...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zZ_AYOWNZZ4

And if that doesn't work, then just go to http://www.youtube.com/joburgtom and then find it there.

Sorry it isn't such good quality, but it WAS taken by my phone.

Happy Freedom Day btw... :)

Pule

April 27th, 2007, 02:35 PM

Aengus had presentation of 2 of their lofts at Standard Bank this past week. I must say that I was impressed that it prompted me to take a drive and park my car by Pritchard Street in the CBD yesterday. Something that I wouldn't do before.

What I have learn out of yesterday's tour is that good management always yield good results.

ABSA have started construction of their offices. On almost every street there are renovations and conversions of old buildings. There's a new Cappello in Pritcard Street, 3 new coffee shops and offices. Aengus is converting one building corner Pritcard and Von weiligh to residential apartments. I'm seeing less and less of street vendors and the city is becoming more and more cleaner. Its even more safer to walk and experince the beuty of Jozi. I must say that a lot was hidden from me when I used to drive in all these street than when I was walking.

My other motivation to walk Jozi came from Jakes because of what he wrote here about our city. I love Joburg and yesterday has proved to me that Jozi is my city and is really alive. I have learnt to learn more than just main street.

My friend moved to a loft, Tribeca Lofts located by Eloff street, while his house is under constriction but when Tribeca was opened for sale on wednesday he bought the loft that he was renting and told me that he doesn't ever wish to leave the city. He is in love with it and like me and Jakes he has learnt to love it. He told me that hawkers in Kerk street will be moved soon and a few of them will be left of which its gonna make the place more lively.

If you have last been in Jozi since last december, I must say that you will be in for a suprise. Josi is a place to be and well done to those ladies and gentlemen who have gone out of their way to make this a place to live, work and enjoy life to the fullest.

kulani

April 27th, 2007, 08:15 PM

when i get back to SA end of this year, i am planning to buy one of these loft apartments in Joburg. I don't want to miss an investment opportunity like this because the price for these looks like it can only go up.

Pule, please take some pictures. I know its difficult often because safety can be a worrying thing with a camera but even when inside a moving car. I just want to see what you are talking.

Pule

April 27th, 2007, 09:02 PM

I took some pics my man, I will post them soon.

SA BOY

April 28th, 2007, 05:15 AM

ahhh red X

joburg

April 28th, 2007, 10:30 AM

^^ Oh sheet.. that didn't come out?

And here I thought flickr allowed for remote linking!

joburg

April 29th, 2007, 09:14 AM

Work begins on underground link-up of two east-of-Joburg shopping malls
By: Christy van der Merwe
Published: 27 Apr 07 - 0:00

http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article.php?a_id=107343

Construction of an underground retail link connecting the existing Bedford Centre and the proposed Bedford Square mixed-use development, in Bedfordview, is to begin next month.

“The link will be situated below Kirkby road between the two developments, and is aimed at being a continuation of the mall, to integrate the two centres,” HBW Group projects director Gareth Poole tells Engineering News.

Although underground retail links are not very common in South Africa, they do exist and have proven a successful way to guide shoppers from one area to another.

Construction of the underground retail link is a complex process as the road above will need to remain open and, therefore, contiguous piling will take place underground from either side of the road. Only once retaining walls have been built on either side of the tunnel, and a reinforcing slab has been laid, can the construction of the underground mall begin. The contractor responsible for the construction of the underground retail link is KNS Construction.

http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/image.article.php?ai_id=30545

The R1-billion, 150 000-m2 Bedford Square development is forecast to open in March 2008 and will consist of cluster apartments, high-rise cluster apartments, 420 luxury apartments, 3 500 m2 of office space, and about 23 000 m2 of retail space.

The project has been broken down into three phases, the first being cluster homes, which were completed in 2006, and the second being high-rise apartments, also completed in 2006 by the developer, Bedford Square Properties, led by Raymond Abrosie.

After the acquisition of Bedford Square Properties by HBW Group in 2006, plans for the third phase, consisting of apartments, and office and retail space, were updated and are currently under way.

“The development will retain and continue the contemporary feel of the existing Bedford Centre with its glass-panelled walls, and there will no longer be a church or a hotel in the square. The upper retail mall area will focus on leisure and entertainment activities, with numerous restaurants and lifestyle stores, and the lower mall will focus more on fashion. The underground link will be from Bedford Centre to the lower level of Bedford Square,” reiterates Poole.

The Square will combine wood and stone with contrasting materials like steel and glass, and will include a Planet Fitness gym and a cinema nouveau, to add to the lifestyle element of the mixed-use development.

The contractor responsible for the third phase of construction of the Bedford Square develop- ment is Murray & Roberts Construc-tion.

“The 60 000-m2 parkade with 210 apartments situated above it is progressing according to schedule and completion is expected at the end of 2007 or the start of 2008. The retail portion of the development, which is taking place concurrently, is set to open in early March 2008. “The second phase of 207 apartments, situated above the retail complex, will only be completed between May and June 2008, although the structure will be externally com- plete by the time the retail sector opens,” explains Murray & Roberts contract director Barry Holness.

The construction of a mixed-use development such as this poses certain challenges as people are usually specialised in either retail or residential developments. “Murray & Roberts has had to ensure that it has a staff comple- ment not only with adequate skills, but a variety of skills to do the job. “The team that has been put together is a good mix of people from various disciplines,” comments Holness.

dysan1

April 29th, 2007, 09:54 PM

Pule

April 30th, 2007, 11:22 AM

I forgot who, but I still remember someone here saying the Monorail project in Fourways is to happen. He said his uncle is involved, can we get updates about it please.

Pule

April 30th, 2007, 02:06 PM

Crane mad jozi is at it again. 6 cranes over bedford centre in bedfordview. Century City like development is under construction. 2 space are cleared for development in Alberton.

joburg

April 30th, 2007, 04:59 PM

6 cranes over bedford centre in bedfordview. Century City like development is under construction.

It's Bedford Square. See the article I posted 3 posts above your post. It's almost done, and the plans for a church and a hotel have been scrapped. But Planet Fitness and Cinema Nouveau are still coming in.

Work begins on underground link-up of two east-of-Joburg shopping malls

Pule

May 1st, 2007, 04:58 AM

Thanx Joburg, but this past weekends Sunday Times have announced that there wont be a church no more.

hsark

May 1st, 2007, 03:46 PM

hi a building is current being gutted and getting both a internal and external makeover in braamfontien its like 20F on the side where college house is anyone got any ideas whats gng on ???

joburg

May 1st, 2007, 04:19 PM

Do you know what the name of the buildings are?

There are two high rises that are being redone by Pace (http://www.pace.co.za) - The Liberty and Manhatten.

Maybe it's those?

waltjie

May 2nd, 2007, 08:29 AM

Took a mate of mine into town on Monday. We were probably there at about 10:30 and finished up at about 13:30. Had breakfast at the Ninos on Hollard Street. Only saw the new Cappello aftewards, othewise wouldve gone there instead. It has such a brilliant location! Took a walk all the way to Carlton and went to the top of the office tower. Whenever I take anyone there who's never been, they always are sooooo pleasantly surprised by the view....

Jozi rocks!

waltjie

May 2nd, 2007, 09:14 AM

Neil Fraser tells us how the Joburg CBD started declining WAY before 1994.

The 1950s

The decision to relocate the City council offices from the CBD to Braamfontein was seen at the time by many in the private sector as a vote of no confidence by the authorities in the central business district. Although the actual move only took place in 1972 - 22 years being a good period for the public sector of the time to translate decisions into action - a number of CBD-based corporations followed the council's lead and relocated to Braamfontein prior to the council's move.

These included Eskom, South African Breweries (SAB), Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI) and Shell. I have made the comment before that often, major decisions appear to be taken without fully taking into account their long-term consequences. A decision, instead, to consolidate the City's presence in the CBD could have had far more positive long-term consequences. But monuments to regimes are far more appealing.

At the time of the council's 1950 decision there were only 4 923 square metres of office space in Braamfontein. By 1965 this figure had mushroomed to 163 113 square metres - most of it at the CBD's expense.

The 1960s

The philosophy that predicated the layout of Johannesburg as a mining town - narrow streets, small erven and small city blocks - together with subsequent town planning regulations to curb the height of buildings, had acted as a brake on development.

In the 1960s the town planning regulations were finally changed to allow for taller buildings that could accommodate allowable bulk. This started a new building boom that included the construction of some 60 tower blocks. By the mid-1960s the "boom" had increased the available office space of the 1950s by a third.

In the late 1960s, however, an ill-conceived and poorly managed parking policy was introduced that permitted a low maximum number of basement parking bays in any new development. An extremely poor public transportation system, together with a propensity for businessmen to want to have their motor vehicles located in the same buildings in which they worked, resulted in developers looking further afield to where planning was more permissive. We still suffer the consequences of this policy today, with hopelessly inadequate parking in the city.

The 1970s

The traditional central business district, or CBD, was roughly the area of the original two mining camps laid out in the mid-1880s. In the 1970s the SABC headquarters moved out of this CBD and the City council finally moved to Braamfontein - together they contributed to a loss of some 5 000 persons from the CBD.

The Carlton Centre, perceived by its developers as a large enough intervention to shift the centre of gravity of the CBD further east, was completed at a time when the city's most prestigious department stores were already relocating to the suburbs. It thus not only did not have the desired influence on the city's retail sector, but also drove property prices in its vicinity extremely high.

The Johannesburg Stock Exchange, widely expected to follow the move of the Carlton Centre eastwards, decided instead to move west, just outside of the traditional CBD boundary, where land was cheaper. The United Building Society, however, moved even further east of the Carlton, where Absa was eventually to consolidate its corporate head office campus.

Sanlam moved its corporate offices from its core CBD location into a new building north of the Carlton while Standard Bank bought ground to the south of the traditional CBD for its future superblock.

Thus, instead of a clustering of activities that one finds in most major cities, the dominant developments in Joburg of the 1970s were to spread and locate at the four corners of the traditional CBD. The result was a stretching or dispersal of the traditional CBD to a point that it could no longer act coherently and efficiently, particularly in view of the lack of public transport. This dispersal was also to have a major affect on retail patterns.

The 1980s

In the 1980s, the trickle of decentralisation started in the previous few decades turned into a flood. Decentralised shopping malls near to places of residence were far more convenient for shopper-workers who had been spread to the four extremities of the CBD.

In the early 1980s, Greatermans, Stuttafords and John Orrs closed their CBD stores and the order of retailing in the city declined. Office accommodation followed the retail. The result was that, between 1981 and 1984, there were 431 000 square metres of office space under construction in the suburbs, compared to less than half that, 205 000, in the CBD and Braamfontein.

An important sector that was affected by the downscaling in retail during this period was the medical sector. Previously, patients had combined their medical visits to the CBD with shopping. With the decline of CBD retail they were not keen to visit the CBD at all and the medical profession basically moved north. This sector was not to recover until 2005-6.

The 1990s

The last decade was a period during which the inner city was in free fall.

From a political point of view, the last of the city's non-representative councils appeared to be in paralysis - clearly it didn't want to do anything that might affect the "new" electorate (and their chances of re-election, as remote as these were), so they preferred to do nothing.

As a result there was absolutely no urban management in operation in the inner city; by-laws such as those related to informal trading were not repealed but simply were not enforced, resulting in a massive uncontrolled and unmanaged spiral of traders on the city's pavements, in turn resulting in an acceleration of retail exiting the inner city.

Taxis commandeered roads and pavements as ranking areas and the inner city was dirty, neglected and unsafe.

The "political paralysis" in so far as the inner city was concerned, continued into the second half of the decade when the first of the democratically elected councils focused its attention, understandably, on restructuring the apartheid structures it had inherited. Regrettably, the structures that it initially introduced were to have a major negative effect on the inner city.

The unmanaged state of the inner city continued. Blocks of flats were hi-jacked by militant tenants placing rentals in specially created accounts at best, or refusing to pay rentals at all at worst. Landlord-tenant relationships plunged and many properties were left without services as property owners struggled to come to grips with the changing scenario.

Financial institutions withdrew from the market and an extensive period of "red-lining" of most of the inner city was imposed - always denied by the institutions.

Prime office rentals slipped back to levels last experienced three to five years previously and vacancies increased dramatically as an increasing number of businesses moved elsewhere as soon as their leases permitted them to do so.

The Johannesburg Sun Hotel was downgraded from five to one star and the Carlton Hotel steadily lost its core clients - the airline crews - who relocated to hotels to the north; eventually both hotels closed. Even prostitutes started abandoning the inner city, moving north to areas in which new hotels were flourishing.

The legal sector followed the medical sector in relocating to the north.

Structurally, the traditional CBD imploded - major initiatives had been focused on its four corners with the result that the traditional core was dramatically weakened. Now many of the major institutions heavily invested in the traditional core, started to disinvest. In a 1999 Economic Review of the Inner City, Professor Richard Tomlinson made the following comment:

"The Johannesburg CBD is essentially owned and controlled by 20 major landowners, of which the most notable are Old Mutual, Anglo American, First National Bank, JCI, Sage, Sanlam and Standard Bank."

Next week I will look at how this "owning and controlling" by the 20 major landowners ended, and at the structural changes to the inner city that the 2000s heralded.

Jakes1

May 2nd, 2007, 09:50 AM

Pace is doing a lot of work in the Braamies! Just checked out their website. These conversions will prob become more and more sought after, especially after the train makes Braams even more connected with the north

A short list of buildings:

Time Square (SOLD OUT): Looks like 8 floors
100 Jorrisen (9 left: out of 161): 6 floors
College House (78 apartments)
The Liberty (7 available): 11 Floors
Broadway: 7 left
The Manhattan (1 available): 7 floors
Bridge view (just launched): 5 floors

Pule

May 2nd, 2007, 10:02 AM

Guys, as you might have realised I was out of touch for a while and now thanks to my Nokia N73, im able browse and write text here. Could you please give me an update on the planned tour in the CBD.

Jakes1

May 2nd, 2007, 10:21 AM

Well, I am attending the innercity summit on saturday, as well as a prelim meeting on friday. The next few weeks will be insane, but we can see when we have time?

Jakes1

May 2nd, 2007, 12:30 PM

Just a quick note. Although I feel that urban ocean is still a bit too idealistic concerning their grand schemes - i just visited their website again.

I thought that SP2 was cancelled, but seems it is back on the cards, after SP sold out. Very funky refurb indeed...

kulani

May 3rd, 2007, 02:51 AM

If you are not in Joburg until the end of the year, then where are you at present?

Dysan1, i am based in New York City. I travel quite often to West Africa (Ghana mainly) where we are launching a new GSM network and a wireless broadband service. I will be based on Joburg hopefully from Q1 2008. Cant wait.

mike2005

May 3rd, 2007, 01:42 PM

ah I lived in NYC too. Hope you are enjoying it. Where are you going to live when you come back to the RSA next year?

N.I.C.E.

May 3rd, 2007, 08:17 PM

Neil Fraser: The Johannesburg Sun Hotel was downgraded from five to one star and the Carlton Hotel steadily lost its core clients - the airline crews - who relocated to hotels to the north; eventually both hotels closed. Even prostitutes started abandoning the inner city, moving north to areas in which new hotels were flourishing.

So when then the prostitutes return, it will be a good thing...... Or have they allready returned.....Please let me know.

kulani

May 4th, 2007, 02:54 PM

kulani

May 4th, 2007, 02:56 PM

ah I lived in NYC too. Hope you are enjoying it. Where are you going to live when you come back to the RSA next year?

I was hopping to settle for Sandton, but the increasingly attractive apartments coming up in downtown Joburg are starting to catch my attention. I am seriously considering these, but lets wait and see.

Pule

May 4th, 2007, 03:05 PM

Oh Kulani, me and my other four buddies have bought an apartment in the CBD. Im waiting for fashion lofts, Im looking at buying there.

joburg

May 4th, 2007, 04:51 PM

I was hopping to settle for Sandton, but the increasingly attractive apartments coming up in downtown Joburg are starting to catch my attention. I am seriously considering these, but lets wait and see.

I can't wait to buy in Braamfontein. Just need to start earning an income! :lol:

There was this AMAZING opportunity two weeks ago. A three floor penthouse in Imbali, a 16-floor building in Berea, going for R1.6 million, complete with roof garden and AWESOME views over the entire Northern suburbs. In 10 years time, you'll easily get at least R10 million for it.

Pule

May 4th, 2007, 07:37 PM

Joburg, you must please inform us next time when theres this kind of an opportunity. But gents if I had money i was gonna open up Mr Price Home branch between pritchard and main street.

N.I.C.E.

May 4th, 2007, 08:44 PM

Jakes1

May 5th, 2007, 02:14 PM

Buyers who purchased apartments and penthouses off-plan in the swanky Melrose Arch development 'The Lincoln' in the northern suburbs of Johannesburg were told last week that their contracts have been cancelled.

The 85 luxury sectional-title units were launched some 18 months ago with great fanfare at prices ranging between R2,5 and R5m. Investors were offered a guaranteed 10% rental income of the gross purchase price for the first year after completion. Construction was due to start earlier this year.

The project, which was marketed as Johannesburg's answer to London's Canary Wharf, was going to be a joint venture between the Melrose Arch Development Company and Kirchmann Hurry Projects.

Buyers are understandably peeved that The Lincoln won't go ahead, as many will have to re-enter the market elsewhere, probably at a higher price than what they signed up for 12 or 18 months ago at The Lincoln.

Nicholas Stopforth, development director of the Melrose Arch Development Company, says construction on The Lincoln has been halted because the pre-sales target of 80% had not been achieved.

Stopforth says the project will be ``re-engineered and re-designed' to create a mixed-use product that will comprise a residential, retail and commercial component. He says the apartments will probably be smaller and cheaper than those initially offered at The Lincoln.

Stopforth insists that investors who bought units off-plan will not be compromised. These buyers will have the first right to purchase into the re-designed development when units are brought to market within the next six to eight weeks, says Stopforth.

However, industry commentators believe that The Lincoln has been hit by cost problems, not unlike a few other residential developments that were canned in Sandton not so long ago.

Peet Strauss, project co-ordinator for Pam Golding Properties at Melrose Arch, says though demand for the live, work and play lifestyle offered by Melrose Arch remains strong, there's no doubt that rapidly rising building costs is making it less viable to bring new residential stock to the market.

Strauss says what has happened at The Lincoln is not unique to Melrose Arch but rather indicative of how difficult it has become for residential developers across SA to operate profitably. - Joan Muller

From a cost perspective these apartments were just absurd in terms of pricing. The Licoln never really excited me in any case. But office space at melrose is sought after, and thus I think they will look into more mixed-use(it makes more sense in any case!).

The skyrocketing building cost in SA will have a great impact on these luxury apartments. That is why sandton is getting more and more cautious in terms of building 30f apartments. The sandton isle was supposed to be apartments, i think it is offices now (21f, i heard last time). The seers guy told me that initially they will only look into retail and offices, maybe residential. Residential space it seems is a tricky one, especially concidering how much capital growth your investment will see. In terms of residential, that is why the CBD is doing better. It is reasonably priced, and you are likely to see more growth.

I wont miss the lincoln. But currently there are 7 cranes busy - one building a 5f residential unit (almost topped out) - 65 units. Then another building another 4f residential (or so it seems). The 7f boulevard is looking great (2 cranes) And then the piazza is coming along, with 3 cranes active here.

Pule

May 5th, 2007, 05:36 PM

Just drove out of Melrose arch with a friend. Plenty of cranes as per Jakes. I dont think the impact of lincoln is unnoticable. Im glad that there will be a piazza.

Pule

May 6th, 2007, 11:23 AM

YEOVILLE, Update

http://joburgcentral.co.za/images/uploadimages/hotel_bottom_big_600x207.jpg

- Three sectional title shop fronts – in prime Yeoville retail positions - went on auction on 25 April.
- The JDA will soon be rolling out a new and brighter stock of streets lights along Rockey and Raleigh streets.
- The JDA will also be relocating the library into the old tram shed. Contact Seipati More for full details: 011 866 7800 (JDA).
Why not visit the Ivorian Restaurant at 8 Francis Street. Phone (011) 487-0885 or 082 743 6537 to book a table. The restaurant is open Tuesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner.

joburg

May 8th, 2007, 10:23 AM

How's this boys?? We're getting a Radisson here in Joburg...

The big question is, WHERE? I'm guessing Sandton Isle. And if it is Sandton Isle, then Sandton Isle is going to get a lot taller than just the multi story parking lot that is currently being built.

For those of you who do not know, Sandton Isle is where the Aston Martin dealership is, as well as the exclusive Palms nightclub.

Rezidor to open a new Radisson in Johannesburg
http://www.boarding.no/art.asp?id=26462

The Rezidor Hotel Group arrives in South Africa’s largest city Johannesburg: In late 2008, the company will open the new Radisson Sandton, Johannesburg – located in the upmarket business district Sandton north of the city centre, featuring 256 rooms and 27 suites. The hotel will be a landmark in town and synonymous with the generation of Radisson’s “new breed” hotels.

- South Africa is an upcoming destination for business and leisure travellers”, comments Kurt Ritter, President & CEO of The Rezidor Hotel Group.

- The government has prioritised tourism as a key economic sector, and international arrivals increase continuously – we are expecting new heights in 2010 when the country hosts the FIFA World Cup.

- With the existing Radisson and Park Inn hotels in Cape Town, as well as the recently signed Radisson hotel in Port Elizabeth, this marks another milestone of the development and commitment of The Rezidor Hotel Group in South Africa.

The Radisson Sandton, owned by Sandton Isle (Pty) LTD, will be located close to the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, the Convention Centre, some of the country’s best shopping malls and golf courses; the international airport is 18 kilometers away. Services of the property will include a restaurant with wine tower bar, 8 conference rooms, a pool and a sundeck. Guests will also have direct access to a Planet Fitness Platinum flagship gym and a wellness health spa.

Sandton has become the new financial centre of South Africa and is Africa’s premier business centre. Furthermore, it is home to the Sandton Convention Centre, one of the largest convention centres on the continent and primary site of the 2002 World Summit on Sustainable Development (also known as "Rio + 10"), which Johannesburg hosted.

Pule

May 8th, 2007, 11:42 AM

Sandton skyline is breathtaking when you view it via M1 durng the night, but I guess at least 4 more 20+ buildings can make it to be more outstanding. By the way, how may are planned and approved especillay the ones meeting the criteria.

I must say that, even though some of the building don't light up at night, the CBD during the night is a killer, with MTN and Vodacom fighting for their logos to be the most visible on Joburg's skyline.

I wish that somebody can take a picture during the night.

Pule

May 8th, 2007, 08:52 PM

joburg

May 8th, 2007, 08:54 PM

Hmmm.. wonder what they're gonna do with it?

Jakes1

May 9th, 2007, 12:17 PM

The changing city, part two
There is a groundswell of new investment into the inner city. While the profile of property owners is changing - along with property uses - money is being poured into sprucing up Joburg's CBD.

May 7, 2007
By Neil Fraser

THE four years from 1996 to 2000 turned out to be a period of ongoing decline. Yet it was also a consolidation period for the inner city during which time various policies and strategies were develop off which increasingly positive investment would start to flow.

As one would expect during such a volatile period, media headlines captured the dichotomy of the times - Squalor and decay growing in inner city and Joburg's inner city - from bad to worse to Inner city decay can be reversed and Putting shine back in the City of Gold.

Politically, the first democratic council, serving from 1995 to 2000, concentrated to a large extent on restructuring the apartheid structures it had inherited. This did have the effect of extending the period of political paralysis that had characterised the previous regime in so far as urban management was concerned.

But the local authority's lack of urban management performance during this period was not the only aspect that contributed to ongoing decline. A number of CBD property owners were as culpable.

Last week I quoted from Richard Tomlinson's 1999 Economic Report that noted that, "The Johannesburg CBD is essentially owned and controlled by 20 major landowners, of which the most notable are Old Mutual, Anglo American, First National Bank, JCI, Sage, Sanlam and Standard Bank."

Soraya Goga, in Property Investors and Decentralisation, remarks that, "the existing CBD owners market also provided the capital for decentralised investment … CBD owners through investing in real estate in new locations in a period of economic decline, undermined their investments in the CBD … both the owners and the investment markets were not competitive but oligopolistic … the issue in Johannesburg is not so much that relocation occurred but the extent of relocation. Given that CBD owners could have dampened decentralised demand, relocation seems to have been excessive."

Goga argues that firstly, an excess of capital in search of investment and held by long-term financial institutions (insurance houses and pension funds) acted as a necessary condition in driving investment to decentralised areas; secondly, the oligopolistic industry structure of these institutions drove "false" competition within the market to exacerbate conditions of oversupply; lastly, that poor internal organisation and management within the investment institutions contributed to the oversupply across the metropolitan area.

Clearly the lack of commitment to the CBD was recognised by the council which probably considered that this placed no priority on improving service delivery.

Property owners
An examination of the major property owners in the CBD today reveals the extent to which the previous institutions disinvested. Southern Life, Sanlam, the Mines Pension Fund, Sage Properties, JHI, Liberty Life, Ampros, Investec and so forth are no longer present - some no longer exist - while a number of the banks have considerably shed their CBD property holdings.
There no longer is a "top 20" of major property holders but rather a small number of major investors who hold property worth more than a billion rand and then a growing number of others who hold a small number of properties, in each case the total value of which would be below a billion rand.

So the current property owners represent a very different breed, largely as individuals or consortiums. That's good for the inner city as such investors often pay a lot closer attention to urban issues than many of the larger institutions of yesteryear - it is their own money at stake. So the first major structural change in the inner city relates to ownership.

While, as I have said, this can be seen as a positive change, my one concern is that the private individuals and new corporations responsible for the larger private sector investment of the past five years (and that which is probably to come over the next five) is almost totally from the white sector.

Jennifer Robinson, in Johannesburg's Futures argues that, "apartheid's demise has not ended the experiences of segregation and inequality that have shaped the lives of most of the people living in Johannesburg. New developments seem as likely to reinforce old patterns as transform them, despite many hopes of initiating a new, integrated and compact city form across the country."

The inner city will not be truly transformed until the majority of property ownership is transformed.

Residential accommodation
The second noticeable structural change in the inner city relates to the geography of the provision of residential accommodation, be it upgrading or refurbishing of existing accommodation or conversion of office buildings to residential.
At least R2-billion has been invested in this market over the past five years, contributing at least 10 000 new or refurbished units, and another R3-billion has already been identified as known projects planned for the next few years. These are occurring in a number of areas.

Firstly, the Jeppe-Bree-Plein corridor through the inner city appears to be a major focus for the provision of middle-income residential, as does Braamfontein, although the latter also caters for the middle- to higher-income bracket.

Secondly, the middle to higher end of the market is also being catered for in an area generally west of Rissik Street and between Commissioner and Anderson streets. In this areas between 850 and 1 000 units are at one stage or another of development.

While the large Brickfields project in Newtown, with 742 units, is in the middle-income category, a substantial number of upper-income units is planned for the Central Place sites opposite the new AngloGold Ashanti headquarters and at the proposed "Majestic" site in the Market Theatre precinct.

In addition, 43 units have recently been developed and sold in the Quinn Street conversion from offices to residential and a large project, The Sidings, will be started shortly behind, or just west of the Quinn Street development; it will bring a further 440 units on to the market.

Hillbrow and Berea
Interestingly, the pace of refurbishments, conversions or upgrades in Hillbrow and Berea, the traditional high-density areas of the inner city, is not as active as I expected.
The Trust for Urban Housing Finance (TUHF) records loans into Berea of R50-million and Hillbrow of R40-million between June 2003 and March 2007 - certainly the need would appear to be many times those numbers although other financial institutions are also lending.

These areas contain some 420 multi-unit medium- to high-rise buildings of which 220 are sectional title. According to Ian Fife, a major property owner in the area, no real secondary market has developed in Hillbrow yet, with just the beginnings of one in Berea. Clearly the upside potential in these areas is huge but the council does need to act to regularise service delivery and by-law enforcement.

One concern that I have regarding this densifying of residential accommodation in built-up areas such as the Jeppe-Bree-Plein corridor is the lack of open space and social facilities. Inner city residents desperately need space to congregate, socialise and relax and the City has to react urgently to these needs or we will have a potential disaster on our hands.

Eastern edge
The third structural change is not really a change as much as a consolidation of an earlier change.
I mentioned last week that, instead of a clustering of activities that one finds in most major cities, the dominant developments of the 1970s were spread out and located at the four corners of the traditional CBD. Well, Absa has now announced and begun construction of another major extension to its campus (R1,1-billion), which is to the east of the traditional CBD.

This eastern sector now contains the growing Absa campus; Jewel City, which is currently also being extended; and, to its north, a mixed-use residential and industrial precinct that is starting to emerge from a really gritty area. So the node on the east of the traditional CBD initiated originally by the location of the Carlton Centre and the UBS, is strengthening considerably.

But another of the 1970s nodes outside the traditional CBD is also being strengthened, this time on the western edge, through some interesting developments. Absa has recently also purchased 11 Diagonal Street, a purchase that will change the use of that building from commercial letting to predominantly institutional.

First National Bank has bought the previous AA Life Building, also on Diagonal Street, and this will have the same result - the institutionalising of previous commercial space. FNB may also be considering redeveloping its open site between the old stock exchange building and its new parking garage on the previous First Card site.

Immediately to the north west of both of these buildings, Anglo Gold Ashanti's new corporate head office is to be completed by mid-year. To the south of these Diagonal Street developments, the Johannesburg Land Company's purchases of properties as well as the open land west of the magistrates' court for a major office park development, will result in a new dynamism for this south western quadrant.

All of this now supports the Standard Bank Superblock development which was the 1970s "breakaway" from the traditional CBD.

The CBD
So that leaves the traditional CBD itself. This is, in fact, the area that coincides with the historic CBD, which approximates the area created by consolidating the two original mining camps in 1887.
It was later, of course, the prime area for retail and attracted some major development in the late 1990s (Bank City, 1066 and so on) as well as new retail for Woolworths, Edgars and Game. But for the past few years nothing much has happened in the area.

Well all that is likely to change. The Gauteng provincial government precinct, if the architect's revised proposals are accepted by his client, will have a major effect on the southern part of this area. At least one major commercial project is being considered while the central part is being affected with a great deal of residential conversions and upgrading as previously mentioned down the Jeppe-Bree-Plein corridor.

The northern sector is the site for the massive Park Station development being planned by the City's transportation department. This, which includes major bus and taxi ranks, also envisages substantial residential and retail activity.

In my estimation it will be a multi-billion-rand development that will be an ideal vehicle for a private-public partnership. It is planned to be developed in six phases between now and 2015. To its north-east is the R100-million Gautrain station already under construction.

Given all the above it is probably not surprising to learn that within the inner city:

Between 1996 and 2006, 9 655 property transfers amounting to some R6-billion took place, the greater proportion since 2001;
Capital developments by both the public and private sectors amounted to between R6,5-billion and R7,5-billion (roughly 2001 to 2006), of which R2,5-billion to R3-billion was from the public sector;
Known projects (of which some commenced in early 2007) already reflect investments over the next three to five years of R12-billion, of which R3-billion will be public sector, excluding the cost of the proposed Bus Rapid Transport System. Excluded also is public sector work that may flow from the City's 2010 office; and
Known future projects include a further 4 000 to 5 000 residential units, new, converted or refurbished.
Isn't it great when a plan comes together?

Regards, Neil

Walking and bus tours by the Parktown and Westcliff Heritage Trust
The costs below are for members and non-members respectively. Bookings can be made at Computicket on 011 340 8000 or through the Computicket website.

For more information, phone 011 482 3349 in the mornings only.

Saturday, 12 May: Benoni – Son of my Sorrow is a bus tour. Meet at 11am at the Sunnyside Park Hotel in Parktown; the tour lasts about five-and-a-half hours and costs R160 and R180, including a picnic lunch.

Saturday, 19 May: Observatory Ridge is a walking tour. Meet at 2pm at St Francis Catholic Church, 43 Cavendish Road, Yeoville; the tour lasts about two-and-a-half hours and costs R50 and R70.

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Jakes1

May 9th, 2007, 12:22 PM

Summit focuses on economic development
The inner city is of strategic importance in ensuring Joburg is a world-class African City, and boosting economic development in its cultural and economic heart is key to cementing Jozi's position in the country and on the continent.

May 8, 2007
By Emily van Rijswijck

EXECUTIVE Mayor Amos Masondo confirmed the City's pledge to prioritise inner city regeneration when he opened the Inner City Summit in Braamfontein on 5 May.

The inner city is the symbolic, economic and cultural heart of Johannesburg and is strategically important to the city as a whole, Masondo said in his opening address.

Masondo said the revitalisation of the inner city was a catalyst for economic growth and job creation, as well as for creating a work and living environment that was secure and decent. There are more than 250 000 permanent residents in the area, while 800 000 or more move through the area on any given day.

Spatial framework
To date, over R1,7-billion had been invested in property in the inner city, most of which came from the public sector. It was expected that 45 000 to 55 000 new residential units could be developed in the inner city, an estimate that Barry Senior, an urban designer, described as "conservative" during the spatial framework presentation at the summit.
Citing clear signs of inner city regeneration, Senior mentioned the number of major corporations that had opted to stay in the city, as well as companies that were returning to the inner city; the AngloGold-Ashanti Group was but one. "Twenty developers are currently looking at the city. Over 100 buildings have been identified and are going through renewal processes."

Masondo confirmed that there had been progress. "Five or six years ago there was no Metro Mall, Constitution Hill, Drill Hall, Faraday Taxi Rank, Gandhi or Mary Fitzgerald squares. Indeed, there was no Nelson Mandela Bridge or the Brickfields housing development. Over the last few years we have seen the transformation of Main Street and Braamfontein, with major private sector investment."

Key interventions in six areas were necessary for the inner city to be functional, Senior added, suggesting the creation of a new heart for the city with three key development nodes. These would be "the northern node, consisting of transport, shopping and residential areas surrounding the Park Station area; the central node, a governmental and financial node; and the southern node, a completely new node, providing major living opportunities and major residential areas".

Other interventions were also suggested in the spatial framework, including a major greening programme; open spaces for everyone; housing that caters for low-, middle- and high-income earners; social facilities; and reliable transport not only within the city but also to outer nodes.

Senior cautioned, however, that the spatial framework was a draft and required additional integration before a final plan could be drawn up.

Economic growth and job creation
Better trading facilities for and managing of informal traders (micro-traders) - both local and foreign - and supporting key existing economic sectors formed the core of discussions at the summit's economic development forum.

The City will strive to provide better facilities and manage informal traders in the inner city

Some of the key business sectors identified were the fashion district, jewel district, the hospitality and tourism industry, cross-border traders, the financial district and various development nodes, mainly Faraday Market, Constitution Hill, Newtown, the Metro Centre area, Braamfontein, Hillbrow, Ellis Park and Westgate.

The importance of providing cheap telecommunications facilities and accurate business and tourist information to potential investors and visitors remained a concern to business groups.

The City suggested commitments to deal with the challenges raised and to create opportunities for economic development in different sectors, as follows.

Street trading and micro retailing
The City's emphasis would be on creating various opportunities for street traders and better organised street trading, said Graeme Gotz, the summit co-ordinator and urban development specialist. Focusing on development as well as regulation, Gotz said the emphasis would be on "stabilising their businesses and assisting with entrepreneurial skills".
Suggested interventions:

Roll out a smart card system by March 2008, managed through a central database, that will provide a record of each trader and trading activity;
Set up two pilot linear markets – markets in pedestrian streets, such as the one currently in Main Street – by December 2007;
Develop and train micro retailers, including training 1 000 traders by June 2008 and link traders to mentorship programmes through relevant Setas, or sector education and training authorities; and
Scale-up the enforcement regime by March 2008 to coincide with the roll-out of new trading spaces.

Telecommunications
The City recognised that the lack of broadband was often a hindrance to doing business in the inner city, Gotz said. With this in mind, it would facilitate access to cheaper broadband telecommunications and related services in specific areas – the inner city, Soweto and Johannesburg South, City Deep and Sandton and Randburg business nodes would be target areas.
Parks Tau, the member of the mayoral committee for finance and economic development, said the broadband network would accommodate both fixed line and mobile lifestyles.

Suggested interventions:

A three-dimensional model of the inner city to be available to the public to assist with telecommunications infrastructure planning by July 2007;
Roll out demonstration network projects by September 2007 at the six identified areas;
Roll out the Joburg Broadband Network by June 2008; and
Depending on funding, set up a city-wide telecommunications office in June 2008 to handle telecommunications infrastructure enquiries and requests.

Supporting key economic sectors
Various new economic activities were growing alongside existing businesses, the summit heard. Among these were cross-border traders, business process outsourcing (BPO), specifically the call-centre industry, the fashion district, tourism-related industries, and various arts, culture and entertainment industries.
Monique Griffith, the acting chair of the Joburg Cross-Border Shopping Association, said traders accounted for R18-million a year in trade within the city. Major concerns for cross-border traders were transport and accommodation, customer care and assistance with South African tax levies, she said.

Suggested interventions:

Johannesburg Inner City Business Coalition and the City of Johannesburg to establish working forums with various sub-sectors by December 2007 and develop a three-year inner city economic development plan by December 2008;
Consolidate a BPO plan, delineating buildings in the inner city by September 2007, and create a further 1 000 BPO seats in the inner city;
Develop a Cross Border Shopping Campus in a suitable location by June 2009, in close proximity to Park Station;
Give start-up support to the Fashion District Institute for three years, starting from July 2008;
Draw up a short-list of 20 key companies by July 2007 to help to identify concerns and constraints; and
Continue with upgrades around Jewel City.

Urban development zone
An urban development zone (UDZ) tax incentive was promulgated by the national government in October 2004 and City records show that this incentive had attracted about R2-billion in investments to date.
Additional incentives were offered by the floor, with the suggestion of reduced water and electricity deposits for new businesses and new developments.

Rees Mann, representing the fashion district, asked for extended shopping hours in the inner city at least once a month. During discussions, business representatives cited the loss of revenue as a result of shops closing too early, with many people south of the equator opting to do their shopping in Dubai because of longer shopping hours.

Mann also suggested the introduction of regular markets, such as craft markets and fresh produce markets, on alternate days.

Suggested interventions:

Extending the UDZ deadline and investigating complementary incentives;
Promoting the UDZ tax incentive to attract an additional R2-billion for 2007/08; and
Increasing black economic empowerment participation to 20 percent.

Supportive built environment
Building structures and environments within the city had to support economic activity, said Getz.
Keryn House, representing Contacting Gauteng, a BPO organisation, said "the toughest thing to sell Johannesburg on is crime". Adding to the crime problem, she said accommodation was a challenge, with investors and visitors opting for accommodation in Sandton and Westcliff.

Councillor Prema Naidoo, MMC for environment confers with Councillor Rehana Moosajee, MMC for Transport and Councillor Mayathula-Khoza, MMC for Community Development at the summit

The lack of a world-class convention centre in the inner city was raised with a suggestion from the floor that the Carlton Centre be "de-mothballed".

Suggested interventions:

Create a comprehensive parking solution for on and off-street parking by December 2007;
Stimulate re-investment in conference facilities, hotels and associated infrastructure; and
Ensure buildings are configured for all market players, from first market entrants to established business.

Information
The City would ensure that improved data and information on economic conditions, trends, opportunities and constraints was easily accessible to interested investors.
Suggested interventions:

Release an annual package of critical information for inner city investors;
Expand and deepen the GIS database on economic activity within the city; and
Develop a research programme to pinpoint drivers of and constraints to the local economy.

Community development
The City recognised the crucial supportive role non-governmental organisations (NGOs), community based organisations and faith based organisations played in helping it to meet its development objectives, Gotz confirmed. To this end the aim was to have a number of supportive measures in place.
Suggested interventions:

Provide at least three dedicated buildings for office space to these organisations by March 2009;
Establish a database of civil society organisations operating in or near the inner city by September 2007;
Establish an inner city corporate Social Responsibility Fund by March 2008; and
Introduce new social funding and grants-in-aid provisions and tariff structures by July 2008.

Special groups
Special groups in the inner city were a key concern for the City, which remained committed to protecting vulnerable and marginalised groups.
Suggested interventions:

Create a Shelter Forum in liaison with the provincial government;
Develop capacity-building and step-down programmes in shelters;
Introduce mechanisms to subsidise fully rates and services of special groups; and
With the City's housing department, develop emergency and transitional shelters catering for these groups.

Early childhood development
There were 225 early childhood development facilities in the inner city, the majority of which were not suitable for such a function.
Suggested interventions:

Provide measurable support to 100 NGOs involved with early childhood development by December 2007; and
Scale up mobile early childhood development capacity over the next three years.

Migrants and refugee populations
The recently opened Migrant Help Desk was one of a number initiatives by the City aimed at this group. An important aspect was the need to interact with migrants in their own language, Gotz said.
Johannesburg would continue to consider the needs and interests of migrants, as well as work towards greater community understanding among all groups through specific educational campaigns, he confirmed.

Sports and recreation
Many facilities in the inner city did not function optimally and there was limited space to develop additional facilities elsewhere, Gotz confirmed. Joburg would, therefore, focus on the optimal usage of existing facilities.
Thabu Putu, the director of capacity at the University of the Witwatersrand, confirmed that the university would continue to work with the City on a number of projects in health, socio-economic development and research.

"At the moment we are deliberating with the City about opening our recreational facilities [to the public] on Enoch Sontonga Drive and at the Education Campus."

Suggested interventions:

Rehabilitate or refurbish all existing facilities by March 2010;
Assess future needs for sport and recreation by June 2008; and
Draft formal agreements with schools in the area as well as the Johannesburg and Witwatersrand universities for the shared use of their facilities.

Access to healthcare
The City recognised the need for improved access to healthcare facilities and outreach programmes "so that a meaningful impact on HIV/Aids can be made". Dramatic improvement to public health facilities would be the focus.
Suggested interventions:

Improve ambulance and emergency management services to the inner city by 2010;
Investigate the re-opening of Hillbrow Hospital by 2011; and
Ongoing support of NGOs doing health outreach work.

Access to education, training and libraries
The City envisaged free literacy training, free access to libraries and free internet access at inner city libraries by 2010. It was also suggested that all libraries provide active business information and linked to Labour Intelligence databases by 2010, Gotz said.
Another community development aspect that would receive attention was creating a comprehensive poverty alleviation and work creation programme, with priority consideration given to inner city populations.

To assist communities to take control of their environment and circumstances, the City would run a series of programmes and campaigns around civic education, environmental education, human rights and consumer rights.

"Within the next few years, by the time of the 2010 Soccer World Cup and the end of this council's term of office, we want the complete transformation of our inner city," Masondo said.

In closing the summit, the City manager, Mavela Dlamini, confirmed that the Inner City Regeneration Charter would act as a map of what Johannesburg would look like in 30 to 50 years time. Further collaboration on the charter was encouraged and concerns and suggestions, particularly solutions to problems, would be welcome.

Contributions to the charter can be directed to Graeme Gotz at GraemeG@joburg.org.za or to Neil Fraser at neil@urbaninc.co.za.

Jakes1

May 9th, 2007, 12:25 PM

Transport to get
a major shake-up
Months of discussions between stakeholders led to a draft transportation charter, with plans to improve transport in Joburg. The finer details were thrashed out at the Inner City Summit at the weekend.

May 8, 2007
By Lucille Davie

A 2007 VISITOR to Joburg and a visitor in 2010 would easily think they were visiting different cities when it comes to transport.

The mayoral committee member for transportation, Rehana Moosajee, and her team, under executive director Bob Stanway, have spent the past few months consulting with transport stakeholders and have produced a draft charter that was presented at the City's Inner City Summit in Braamfontein on Saturday, 5 May.

"Unlike many cities elsewhere in the world, the inner city of Johannesburg lacks a world-class ‘distribution system' that enables residents of inner city and near-inner city neighbourhoods to get easily to and from school or work, and enables office workers to move between commercial nodes," reads the draft charter.

To counter this, the City's transportation department has devised a new system called the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) which will facilitate mobility into and out of, and within, the city. The taxi industry will be an integral part of the BRT, and will "provide a major new business opportunity for the taxi industry by allowing industry players to become major shareholders in the new system".

The BRT will have key intersections that will be designed to integrate with newly planned commercial developments, new residential developments, new public spaces and new street trading facilities. The planning for the BRT system will be complete by December 2007, with roll out expected by January 2010.

The department's plans encompass a number of other areas too: the Park Station Precinct; commuter rail; parking; taxi-ranking and holding; mobility and congestion; and transportation and traffic safety.

Park Station Precinct
The Park Station Precinct includes the Metro Mall taxi rank, long-distance taxi ranks along Noord Street, various formal and informal long-distance bus ranks and drop-off facilities, and the future Gautrain station. This probably makes it the "largest transport interchange anywhere in the country".
There is a concern that the precinct does not operate as a single integrated intermodal facility because of poor connections between the various modes and a lack of formal facilities.

To counter this, the department proposes that these areas be integrated into one inter-modal transport facility, called the International Transit and Shopping Centre, to be completed by December 2015. It is envisaged that the centre will be a public-private partnership development. It will contain taxi-holding and international bus-holding facilities.

Stanway said he saw the precinct providing the city with the equivalent of the quality services available at OR Tambo International Airport

Commuter rail
A national commuter rail plan that envisages a major overhaul of all infrastructure and operations across the country over the next few years is being finalised.
Together with the City, the South African Rail Commuter Corporation/Intersite will rehabilitate stations in the inner city by 2010, providing improved accessibility for students, workers and visitors and, at the same time, creating opportunities for new retail and residential development.

The rehabilitation will have spill over effects, such as improvements to surrounding streets and the upgrading of pedestrian walkways.

Two stations, Doornfontein and Ellis Park, will probably be closed and a new station, located between the two, will be built. Other stations will be rehabilitated by March 2010.

Parking
Historically, the lack of parking has been a huge problem in the inner city, possibly a major factor in driving inner city decline.
The private sector has built a number of off-street parking facilities but in general parking remains a problem across the city, while on-street parking is poorly managed.

The dilemma is to provide for cars but also encourage motorists to make use of public transport. "While the City remains committed to shifting the balance towards public transport usage, it recognises that making more parking space available, both on- and off-street, and managing this more effectively, will be a key contributor towards the further regeneration of the inner city."

Johannesburg has to balance the supply and demand of parking, ensuring that private sector development complies with town planning schemes and supplying sufficient parking spaces to match the amount of office space.

Plans are on the drawing board. An integrated plan for the development or refurbishment of off-street parking will be completed by December 2007, to be fully rolled out by December 2010. Likewise, an integrated plan for the management and maintenance of on-street parking will be completed by December 2007, to be rolled out by March 2009.

Taxi ranking and holding
Existing facilities for minibus taxis are either inadequate or are not being fully utilised because of their location or inadequate maintenance.
This results in illegal taxi ranks, which in turn leads to congestion and inappropriate stopping points; this causes conflict with other road users or law enforcement officials.

The City aims to work with all taxi stakeholders to ensure there are no more unmanaged and illegal ranks or stops on the streets by March 2011. "This requires the development of an adequate number of taxi ranking and holding facilities, in full consultation with the taxi industry as to location, design and ongoing management," according to the draft charter.

A plan for the development of new taxi facilities and the re-development of existing facilities will be completed by June 2008, to be rolled out by March 2011.

Mobility and congestion
Synchronisation of traffic lights has lagged over the years, leading to congestion on city streets.
The Johannesburg Roads Agency is currently re-modelling and upgrading a synchronisation plan that involves various aspects of intelligent transport systems like intersection priority control and motorist information systems. These refer to links back to a control centre where robots are monitored and faults are immediately detected, or providing information to motorists driving on freeways on problems ahead

Future development needs to take into account increases in residential densities, BRT routes, proposed pedestrianisation of streets, and markets that accommodate street traders.

Pointsmen at key intersections have been introduced on a trial basis to ease traffic flow and to ensure "maximum mobility and minimum congestion". In partnership with the private sector, pointsmen will be in place across the city by September 2008.

Results of the traffic signalling and planning work will be published by December 2007, with new measures to be rolled out by December 2009.

Transportation and traffic safety
Johannesburg is particularly concerned about pedestrian safety and security and the improvement of the safety and security of public transport facilities.
"The City wishes to see dramatic improvements in motorist, pedestrian and commuter safety and security."

It is committed to improving the visibility of traffic law enforcement activities in key areas. It will run pedestrian safety educational awareness campaigns by June 2008, with a special focus on the safety and security of children as pedestrians, especially when they are using public transport.

These commitments come out of months of consultation with the relevant stakeholders. Further stakeholder discussions took place at the summit and out of these discussions the following were agreed: the need to intensify consultations; the need to put the commuter at the centre of all plans; the need for a forum immediately to address pressing short-term concerns like ranks and enforcement; and the need to take the disabled into consideration.

SA BOY

May 9th, 2007, 02:12 PM

gotta get carlton hotel converted to resi

Jakes1

May 9th, 2007, 04:17 PM

By: Olivia Spadavecchia
Published: 4 May 07 - 0:00
An upmarket mixed-use development is under construction in Rosebank, Johannesburg, following the demolition of five buildings and excavation.

The R623-million project is funded by Old Mutual and will feature retail space, a 160-room hotel, a four-level basement parking garage and loft offices.

The development is being undertaken by Old Mutual Investment Group: Property Investments, the demolition by subcontractor Zero Unlimited and lateral support by Franki.

"It is part of a phased precinct strategy by Old Mutual and will take advantage of the opportunities presented by having a Gautrain station as part of the offering," says Old Mutual Investment Group: Property Investments business development executive Brent Wiltshire.

The Rosebank underground station of the Gautrain will be accessed through pedestrian entrances situated at Tyrwhitt Mall and in front of The Zone, on Oxford road.
Admirals Court, Rosebank Boulevard, Oxford Corner, Knightsbridge and the previous Fournos Bakery are currently being demolished and this process should be completed by the end of June. The site of the new development borders the Hyatt Hotel, and two shopping centres, namely The Firs and The Zone@ Rosebank.

"The design for the development extends the retail flavour of The Zone and offers something special in the form of a luxury boutique hotel. The hotel, to be leased by LEH, a newly established group, will integrate with the retail component through a sharing of common areas and basement parking," explains Wiltshire.

The construction of the basement parking is hoped to be completed in the second half of 2008 and the retail and loft offices in mid-2009. Proposed completion of the hotel is in April 2010, in time for the soccer World Cup.

A residential tower block, on the northwestern side of the site, consisting of 114 units, is being planned as a future phase of the mixed-use development.

"These upmarket apartments will complement the existing apartment blocks in the area. They will help cater for the anticipated change in Rosebank as a result of the introduction of the Gautrain station on Oxford road," notes Wiltshire.

The retail area, located on the ground floor, will offer homeware, fashion and restaurants that open out onto a courtyard. The first floor will house restaurants and add to the fashion stores in The Zone.

"The loft office units above the retail area will offer an upmarket studio environment and will be targeted at professional practices and clothing designers. The aim is to create a lifestyle centre that satisfies a combination of living requirements and complements nearby developments," adds Wiltshire.
Edited by: Martin Zhuwakinyu

Pule

May 9th, 2007, 04:38 PM

Jewel City to sparkle soon

The Johannesburg Development Agency is polishing the rejuvenation of Jewel City, a high security district in the eastern part of the CBD. Here billions of rand is spent each year.

May 9, 2007
By Lucille Davie

THINK of a small corner of the CBD where R7-billion changes hands every year and you'd be forgiven for thinking of the mining district in Main Street or the banking sector scattered across the city. Instead, think Jewel City.

http://www.joburg-archive.co.za/images_2007/may/jewelcity001.jpg

A precinct of four city blocks on the eastern edge of the city centre, Jewel City is quietly getting on with the business of boosting economic activity in the CBD, as well as bringing tourists to spend welcome foreign currency in Johannesburg.

http://www.joburg-archive.co.za/images_2007/may/jewelcity000.jpg
The entrance to Jewel City in Main Street

In existence for the past 17 years, Jewel City was on the brink of moving to Melrose Arch a year or so ago before the Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) stepped in to revamp the area. The first phase was to clean up the district; now the JDA is spending R14-million to give it an identity of its own. This started in January and will be finished in July.

It involves street upgrades; artwork; new lighting; street furniture like benches, paving and kerbing; much-needed trees; as well as developing gateways at its entrances.

http://www.joburg-archive.co.za/images_2007/may/jewelcity002.jpg

Jewel City consists of offices and workshops for about 300 diamond dealers and manufacturers, who receive and process diamonds from as far away as Angola, the Congo and Botswana.

The four blocks, consisting of a number of buildings, are at present divided down the middle by a high wall and owned by two parties: Apex Hi and a private stakeholder, who wishes to remain anonymous. The wall is to come down by the end of May.

http://www.joburg-archive.co.za/images_2007/may/jewelcity003.jpg

David Rice, MD of Apex Hi, expects to expand Jewel City in the future. "We have bought properties on Phillip Street, and will clean up the area, and expand to create more parking."

It is surrounded by very tall metal gates and high security electric wiring, and floor-to-floor security clearance. It is bordered by Commissioner and Main streets in the north and south, and Berea and Fox streets in the east and west, neatly positioned between the outgoing and incoming M2.

Three blocks of Fox Street and two blocks each of Phillips and Greene streets are incorporated within the precinct. The immediate area consists of untidy streets housing mostly motor industry workshops and borders the fashion district, an intensive small-scale clothing industry area.

http://www.joburg-archive.co.za/images_2007/may/jewelcity00.jpg
An aerial view of the precinct, sandwiched between the M2 in- and outgoing lanes

The Diamond Board and Bourse, a training school, several bank branches, the Diamond Merchants' Association, the Rough Diamond Master Cutters' Association and the Jewellery Council are all housed in Jewel City.

The precinct attracts about 1 000 visitors a day, mostly buying cut and polished but unmounted diamonds.

Revamp
The JDA called in Gapp Architects and Urban Designers for the revamp. Architect Mbongeni Ngulube says the company has tried to accommodate pedestrians and traffic in the re-design. "We have taken a deconstructed diamond shape at the intersection of Market and Commissioner streets and created a gateway from the airport."
It will contain two indigenous trees and a sculpture with attractive paving enhancing the intersection. Another sculpture, three blocks away on the corner of Commissioner and End streets, will be erected, creating a pedestrian intersection. The intersections will be delineated with bollards.

A point of interest on this corner is an old granite beacon, now lying on its side, marking one of the bottom points of the original triangle of land from which Joburg grew, referred to as Randjeslaagte. The brass plaque on the beacon is missing but the beacon will be lifted and a new plaque will be put in place as part of the revamp.

Once approval has been obtained from City Power, says Ngulube, part of the plan is to erect rings of metal with embedded lights around sections of the freeway on either side of the precinct. The rings won't go completely over the freeway.

Already the freeway pillars have been cleaned of old graffiti and posters and treated with anti-graffiti paint. It is estimated that the private sector, largely in the form of Apex Hi, has pumped about R135-million into the district.

Other developments
Meanwhile, the set of four buildings directly opposite the precinct, on Berea Street, has been bought by developer Ricci Polack. He was responsible for one of the first conversions of factory space to loft apartments on the western edge of the CBD, in Milpark, calling it The Refinery.
Polack is planning a mixed-use development, with 17 lofts, offices, a piazza, a restaurant and an art collection. The original building belonged to DF Corlett, a building contractor and former mayor of Joburg who gave his name to Corlett Drive in Illovo. His original chair, desk and safe were part of the purchase.

Some redevelopment has already taken place. In 2006, the five-storey August House in End Street, previously a small-scale factory building, was converted into loft and studio space, with an international art gallery opening on its ground floor.

And in 2003, an old factory building at the far southern end of End Street was also converted into loft living space.

Pule

May 9th, 2007, 05:00 PM

The following building is situated on Eloff Extension, its visible from M2 and its on you left hand-side when you driving M2 west. Its being renovated, its was an eye sore.

http://i166.photobucket.com/albums/u115/Puleza_2007/P1030144.jpg

This is the shot I took today, it clearly hsow the build
http://i166.photobucket.com/albums/u115/Puleza_2007/P1030170.jpg

Pule

May 9th, 2007, 05:55 PM

Jakes1

May 9th, 2007, 06:36 PM

I think they are more cautious pule. Clearly a lot of developments will gain impetus because of the world cup, but nothing is being developed exclusively for the world cup in terms of transport etc. We will have to wait a bit longer, it seems.

joburg

May 9th, 2007, 06:46 PM

Hey guys...

http://www.represent.co.za is back up and running again.

It's an awesome blog featuring everything and anything that makes Joburg totally kewlness!!

joburg

May 9th, 2007, 06:54 PM

Representah! A Day in the Life… Jozi 2010
http://www.represent.co.za/representah-a-day-in-the-life%e2%80%a6-jozi-2010.htm#more-1286
May 9th, 2007 · 2 Comments

We’re really excited about our new crew of citizen journalists writing for Represent and giving us even more juicy content for you darling readers - here’s our debut submission from a very loyal Representah Linda Soga who took time out to attend the Inner City Summit last weekend - for anyone that’s interested in the plans for the city from now to the big bang in 2010, read all about it! Some very exciting moves - by the way, anyone know what’s happening with ConHill - seems to be moving a little slower than planned? i.e. Where is that Hyatt hotel? Sharpile Linda - uyarocka.

A Day in the Life… Jozi 2010 I roll out of bed…growling at my alarm clock as I rub the sleep out of my eyes… I look at the time; “Yikes! Late again”. I take a quick shower, dress, grab my bag and set off at a trot down to the bus stop at the corner, pausing only to say hello to the doorman at the front of my apartment building. I’m just in time to catch the bus; one minute later and I would have had to walk the five blocks to the train station (in these heels, girlfriend? I don’t think so!) I get on the bus, sit down and start to breathe normally. In fifteen minutes, I’m at the office, and as the day goes by, I start planning what to do later on… it’s Friday.

A few phone calls tell me that it’s all happening in Newtown tonight… Oh yes, I live in downtown Jozi, and the year is 2010, although you’d be forgiven for associating the scene I’ve just described with Manhattan, London or some other metropolis.

Or picture this… I haven’t driven my car in over two weeks. Oh, there’s nothing wrong with it; I just have not needed to. I live downtown, a walking distance to work. There’s a shopping arcade across the road from me, for those quick after-work purchases. And for entertainment, I’m spoilt for choice – there’s the gallery around the corner, the movie house two blocks away and Joburg City Hall, always good for live music. This is the Joburg of the (not too distant) future.

This urban landscape was painted by the City of Johannesburg at the Inner City Summit which I attended last weekend – of a city in which one will be able to live, work, and play. The Summit was held at the Braamfontein Recreation Centre, next door to the recently refurbished Parktonian Hotel. There was a large turnout, of people from all walks of life – property developers, business people, investors, and people who live in the city – all with one common interest: Johannesburg. The City of Johannesburg officials presented a “Draft Inner City Regeneration Charter”, inviting public input and discussion.

The detailed document is available at http://www.joburg.org.za/ The Charter contains some broad goals for the City and some specific ones, in six main categories:

1. Economic development
2. Residential development
3. Urban management, safety and security
4. Public spaces, arts, culture and heritage
5. Social development
6. Transportation.

Developments will mainly focus on identified “development nodes” in Newtown, Constitutional Hill, Ellis Park, Braamfontein, the Fashion District, and Park Station.
The highlights, for me, were:
• The City is negotiating the extension of the Urban Development Zone (UDZ) tax incentive, which should encourage private investment into the city, and also make property in the inner city more affordable.
• A Bus Rapid Transit system will be rolled out by January 2010. This is for improving transport in and around the city, mainly to link the development nodes described above. I don’t see taxi drivers falling in love with this idea, but I think it will help a lot of people.
• There will also be pedestrian safety awareness campaigns; visible policing and more CCTV security cameras installed throughout the City.
• An Inner City Housing Plan that provides at least 50,000 new residential units by 2015.
• Rehabilitation or demolition of bad buildings, as well as the redevelopment of all informal settlements in the Inner City by 2012. The issue of accommodating people evacuated from bad buildings and informal settlements has already been controversial this year. I think it’s going to become even more contentious.

I found some of the plans a bit wishy-washy, like “poverty alleviation and work creation programmes” was very skimpy on details, and there were no time-frames allocated. Ditto “improved access to health facilities”; “ongoing support to NGOs”…etc. But then again, this Charter is still at the “draft” stage, so I assume more details will be forthcoming in due course.

The fun stuff?

Iconic public places will be rehabilitated, like the Workers’ Library in Newtown, which will be transformed in to a “world class museum of labour migration by March 2010”. The 2009 World Summit on Arts and Culture will be hosted in Joburg. There will me more public events hosted in the City, to be outlined in a draft calendar later this year. Plans are afoot to re-open the Alexander Theatre by September 2007 and the Alhambra Theatre by June 2008. Museum Africa will be upgraded by March 2009; and the Johannesburg City Hall will be refurbished and developed to be “the best venue in Africa for jazz concert performances” by March 2010.

All in all, I’m feeling very optimistic about Jozi. I think a lot of energy and resources have been dedicated to ensuring that urban redevelopment does happen, especially in the run-up to 2010. I look forward to the changes.

By Linda Soga - A Representah!

joburg

May 9th, 2007, 06:57 PM

^^ Yarrick did you hear anything about the Alhambra Theatre reopening? That is a truly gorgeous theatre!

The Alexander is definitely opening with Rent in about 2-3 months.

Also heard today that the Civic will be holding a production of Fiddler on the Roof. You should soooo go Yarrick.. to connect with your Eastern European heritage. ;)

kulani

May 9th, 2007, 07:05 PM

gotta get carlton hotel converted to resi

If i had that sort of cash i would buy Carlton centre and convert it into multi-purpose use with residential units, offices and refurbish the ground floor's retail section. Damn, there is so much i would do with Carlton Centre.

Jakes1

May 9th, 2007, 07:09 PM

Jewel City to sparkle soon
The Johannesburg Development Agency is polishing the rejuvenation of Jewel City, a high security district in the eastern part of the CBD. Here billions of rand is spent each year.

May 9, 2007
By Lucille Davie

THINK of a small corner of the CBD where R7-billion changes hands every year and you'd be forgiven for thinking of the mining district in Main Street or the banking sector scattered across the city. Instead, think Jewel City.

A precinct of four city blocks on the eastern edge of the city centre, Jewel City is quietly getting on with the business of boosting economic activity in the CBD, as well as bringing tourists to spend welcome foreign currency in Johannesburg.

The entrance to Jewel City in Main Street

In existence for the past 17 years, Jewel City was on the brink of moving to Melrose Arch a year or so ago before the Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) stepped in to revamp the area. The first phase was to clean up the district; now the JDA is spending R14-million to give it an identity of its own. This started in January and will be finished in July.

It involves street upgrades; artwork; new lighting; street furniture like benches, paving and kerbing; much-needed trees; as well as developing gateways at its entrances.

Jewel City consists of offices and workshops for about 300 diamond dealers and manufacturers, who receive and process diamonds from as far away as Angola, the Congo and Botswana.

The four blocks, consisting of a number of buildings, are at present divided down the middle by a high wall and owned by two parties: Apex Hi and a private stakeholder, who wishes to remain anonymous. The wall is to come down by the end of May.

David Rice, MD of Apex Hi, expects to expand Jewel City in the future. "We have bought properties on Phillip Street, and will clean up the area, and expand to create more parking."

It is surrounded by very tall metal gates and high security electric wiring, and floor-to-floor security clearance. It is bordered by Commissioner and Main streets in the north and south, and Berea and Fox streets in the east and west, neatly positioned between the outgoing and incoming M2.

Three blocks of Fox Street and two blocks each of Phillips and Greene streets are incorporated within the precinct. The immediate area consists of untidy streets housing mostly motor industry workshops and borders the fashion district, an intensive small-scale clothing industry area.

An aerial view of the precinct, sandwiched between the M2 in- and outgoing lanes

The Diamond Board and Bourse, a training school, several bank branches, the Diamond Merchants' Association, the Rough Diamond Master Cutters' Association and the Jewellery Council are all housed in Jewel City.

The precinct attracts about 1 000 visitors a day, mostly buying cut and polished but unmounted diamonds.

Revamp
The JDA called in Gapp Architects and Urban Designers for the revamp. Architect Mbongeni Ngulube says the company has tried to accommodate pedestrians and traffic in the re-design. "We have taken a deconstructed diamond shape at the intersection of Market and Commissioner streets and created a gateway from the airport."
It will contain two indigenous trees and a sculpture with attractive paving enhancing the intersection. Another sculpture, three blocks away on the corner of Commissioner and End streets, will be erected, creating a pedestrian intersection. The intersections will be delineated with bollards.

A point of interest on this corner is an old granite beacon, now lying on its side, marking one of the bottom points of the original triangle of land from which Joburg grew, referred to as Randjeslaagte. The brass plaque on the beacon is missing but the beacon will be lifted and a new plaque will be put in place as part of the revamp.

Once approval has been obtained from City Power, says Ngulube, part of the plan is to erect rings of metal with embedded lights around sections of the freeway on either side of the precinct. The rings won't go completely over the freeway.

Already the freeway pillars have been cleaned of old graffiti and posters and treated with anti-graffiti paint. It is estimated that the private sector, largely in the form of Apex Hi, has pumped about R135-million into the district.

Other developments
Meanwhile, the set of four buildings directly opposite the precinct, on Berea Street, has been bought by developer Ricci Polack. He was responsible for one of the first conversions of factory space to loft apartments on the western edge of the CBD, in Milpark, calling it The Refinery.
Polack is planning a mixed-use development, with 17 lofts, offices, a piazza, a restaurant and an art collection. The original building belonged to DF Corlett, a building contractor and former mayor of Joburg who gave his name to Corlett Drive in Illovo. His original chair, desk and safe were part of the purchase.

Some redevelopment has already taken place. In 2006, the five-storey August House in End Street, previously a small-scale factory building, was converted into loft and studio space, with an international art gallery opening on its ground floor.

And in 2003, an old factory building at the far southern end of End Street was also converted into loft living space.

Jakes1

May 10th, 2007, 10:11 AM

City to spend millions
on inner city facelift
Bad management is responsible for much of the decay in the inner city. But the good news is that the City has plans and the money to stop the rot in its tracks through a regional urban management plan, the Inner City Summit hears.

May 9, 2007
By Ndaba Dlamini

THE lack of an integrated and consistent approach to urban management has led to escalating crime and decay in the inner city over the past years. In an attempt to reverse these negative facets, the City has committed to developing a comprehensive plan to respond to a cross-section of urban management challenges facing the area.

Speaking to delegates at the Inner City Summit held in Braamfontein on Saturday, 5 May, Executive Mayor Amos Masondo said the City was not yet on top of crime and grime in the inner city, but this should change.

"We have run clean-up campaigns and by-law enforcement blitzes. But these have not [had] a lasting effect. We still see dirty streets, unmanaged street trading, pavements in disrepair, people urinating in public, litter and illegally dumped waste on the side of the road. We still see many players failing to comply with the City’s by-laws."

A draft Inner City Regeneration Charter, presented at the summit, looks at various issues that the City will tackle individually, namely urban management, by-law enforcement and education, waste management, visible policing, surveillance technology and bad buildings.

The charter recognises that there has been concerted effort by the private sector to restore the inner city to its former glory through establishing city improvement districts (CIDs) and implementing a range of initiatives that have sought to protect and enhance property investment. To complement this, the City plans to establish a regional urban management plan by September.

Masondo said the City had realised that its utilities and departments, such as Pikitup, Joburg Water, the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) and environmental health officers, could not come up with a comprehensive mechanism for a clean and orderly city on their own. Over the next year the City would set up a structure and a relevant mechanism in Region F to improve the inner city’s environment.

The inner city falls in Region F.

Funds
"We aim to replicate the work that we have done in Braamfontein across the inner city within the next five years. To kick-start this programme we are committing R100-million of public environment upgrade funds over the next five years. We trust that this will leverage equally large contributions from the private sector."
The funds would be used to upgrade all pavements, install "decent" streetlights and waste bins, plant trees, build decent street furniture and upgrade available plots into mini-parks and public spaces.

A key concern among a range of stakeholders in the inner city is the lack of effective management of waste. Exacerbating this is littering of streets, illegal dumping of waste, poor management of activities such as street trading and on-street taxi-ranking, and an increasing number of buildings with collapsing management structures.

To remedy this the City committed to establishing waste management and cleansing services operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week. An additional R99-million operating budget will be allocated to Pikitup in the 2007-08 financial year to build a new system of waste management and street cleaning with a specific focus on the inner city.

On top of this, by July 2008 the City will launch an inner city recycling programme that will support small- and medium-sized enterprises to grow sustainable waste recycling businesses; and by 2011 a pilot underground bin system for commercial and residential buildings will be rolled out across the inner city.

Bad buildings
The area is characterised by numerous buildings that have been abandoned by their owners, leaving it unclear who is responsible for management. In addition, many people living in the inner city do not have identity numbers and fixed residential addresses, making it difficult to issue and follow up on notices and fines.
Through a zero-tolerance approach to effective law enforcement, as well as education and creative mechanisms that will make it easier for building owners and residents to comply, the City commits to achieving a culture of compliance in the inner city where infractions are an exception rather than the rule.

Most abandoned buildings in the inner city come to pass as bad buildings. These are a major challenge to the City since in most cases they harbour criminals, pose a health hazard and are generally unsightly. To date the City’s response to bad buildings has often been reactive, resulting in evictions seemingly the only feasible way forward.

However, the City plans to devise a new system to detect bad buildings as soon as they start to decline and to deal proactively with conditions in these buildings in an integrated, multi-disciplinary way that solves problems. In the case of existing bad buildings the City plans to eradicate these by 2015.

Safety and security
The draft charter identifies a lack of safety on the streets as a major setback to investment in the inner city. It also recognises that neither JMPD nor South African Police Service (SAPS) stations have the staff or vehicles to undertake visible patrols in parks and squares, at known hotspots of crime, places of repeated by-law infractions and traffic bottlenecks.
The solution it proposes is to increase the number JMPD officers dedicated to the inner city and the number of patrolling vehicles. The JMPD, together with the SAPS, will institutionalise a system of visible on-the-street patrols. In a groundbreaking move, a new CCTV control room will give an effective platform for communication between the SAPS, the JMPD, the central improvement district guards and private security operations. The new CCTV control room is expected to be operational by 2008.

To add to the increased number of policemen, the inner city would be fully covered with CCTV cameras within the next five years, Masondo said.

There will be more metro police officers patrolling the inner city

"As a first step in this direction we commit to doubling the number of CCTV cameras in the inner city by the end of this year. This will bring the number of cameras to 216. We are also working to link up this system with private sector systems."

Adding on to the draft charter, stakeholder discussions where held at the summit and contributions included the need to link commitments to budgets, resources and project plans; the need to communicate the charter to residents to ensure buy-in; and the need for ongoing feedback to the constituency on progress.

The City will continue to hold meetings with inner city stakeholders until the final charter is passed later this year.

kulani

May 10th, 2007, 10:52 PM

This all sound great, but i am a little disappointed at the Joburg municipality for not actually having a plan all along for doing all this. I thought that an integrated plan was in place already and not just being put together now!! We should have been busy implementing this stuff and not talking about "there will be" or "we will do this and that".

Sorry for not being enthusiastic about this plan because it should have been in place a long time ago. Look at Cape Town which put together a comprehensive regeneration plan and implemented it and now they are reaping the rewards!! Joburg is more talk and little action. How long does it take to ask the metro cops to stop hiding around the highway bridges and hanging at the shopping malls and go to the city and help keep the place safe.

joburg

May 10th, 2007, 10:59 PM

Turning the inner city into Jozi's playground
May 10, 2007
By Lucille Davie

IF several councillors have their way, the inner city will, over the next few years, become a very different place in which to live, play and work.

There'll be more parks, playgrounds, walkable streets, iconic public places, public events and art, and a vamped-up programme of arts and culture, to enhance and establish firmly Joburg's reputation as the cultural capital of the country.

All this excitement came out of the draft proposals for the Inner City Regeneration Charter, to be produced in June, discussed at the Inner City Summit on Saturday, 5 May.

There were six sub-sections presented at the summit; under the section on public spaces, arts, culture and heritage, two councillors, Nandi Mayathula-Khoza and Prema Naidoo, consulted with stakeholders on the draft.

Mayathula-Khoza is the member of the mayoral committee for community development and Naidoo is the member for environment.

Public places

By 2015, the City aims to have at least 5 percent of total space in the inner city developed as "quality public open space"; every inner city resident will be within 300 metres of a public open space.

To get to this vision the City will, by December 2007, have drafted an implementation plan for the upgrade and maintenance of currently dysfunctional open spaces and parks. By March 2009, redeveloped parks will include the Alec Gorschell Park, the Donald Mackay Park, both in Berea, the End Street Park, the Pieter Roos Park in Hillbrow and The Wilds in Houghton.

By March 2008, new spaces will be identified as public spaces, to be developed as "partnership places". These will be co-designed and co-managed with communities. Buildings will also be identified as potential public spaces, to be demolished.

A continuous open space spine is also to be investigated, linking the Yeoville Ridge, Pullinger Kop and the End Street Park, crossing the railway line south of the Johannesburg Art Gallery and cutting across the new Park Station precinct to the original Park Station building opposite Brickfields. A management agreement will be in place by September 2008.

Other public spaces to be investigated by March 2008 include the Braamfontein Cemetery, a park around Hillbrow Tower, a park east of the Supreme Court, one west of Joe Slovo Drive, and a space east of the Standard Bank super block.

Walkable streets

To ensure that people can enjoy these public spaces, the City needs to upgrade streets that are at present "un-refurbished, cluttered and, in particular, un-walkable after dark".

By December 2007, it will have developed a "comprehensive inner city streetscape/public environment upgrade", with plans to implement this by March 2011. It will include everything from new paving, planting trees, clean public amenities and the provision of refuse bins, to the replacement of manhole covers.

Exciting plans for priority streets and precinct areas, to be implemented by December 2009, include making Rissik Street a boulevard, Diagonal and Eloff streets "pedestrian priorities", and completing Main Street eastwards to link with the Absa campus.

Key precinct areas will include Hillbrow-Berea, the fashion district and others still to be determined.

Iconic public places

Several iconic public places have been completed over the past few years: Constitution Hill, Drill Hall and Mary Fitzgerald Square. Another project, the Gauteng provincial government precinct and square, is still on the drawing board, but it will become another Joburg iconic public place.

However, it is felt that the present iconic places are not reaching their full potential. A goal of the charter is to see these places reach their full potential and achieve full operational sustainability. A management and financing model will be drawn up by December 2007.

The City is committed to developing other key iconic public places, with feasibility and business plans finalised by March 2008. These may include the Old Park Station and the Gauteng square.

By march 2010 the site of the Workers' Library in Newtown will be rehabilitated to form a world-class museum of labour migration.

The visual cityscape

The City is concerned about the visual appearance of the inner city, in particular, "an excess of inappropriate outdoor advertising and building wraps".

A careful balance needs to be maintained between respecting the rights of property owners and advertisers, while at the same time respecting the desire of the public to not be subjected to a cluttered and unattractive visual cityscape.

This goes hand-in-hand with a desire to maintain the quality of architecture and urban design in a rapidly re-developing inner city.

"The City of Johannesburg wishes to see a visually coherent cityscape without excessive clutter from too many inappropriate outdoor adverts and building wraps, and with quality architecture and urban design appropriate to the local context."

It will review its current policy governing outdoor advertising by December, in consultation with a range of stakeholders. Strict regulations prohibiting the full wrapping of buildings on a semi-permanent or permanent basis are expected.

Public events and art

The City is keen to encourage more active use of open space, particularly in iconic public places and parks. It is planning to scale up its programme of public events, compiling a calendar of possible events on an annual basis, to be sufficiently financed, managed and marketed.

It will work with civil society organisations to support organised activities in parks, specially designed to include children.

In terms of Joburg's public art policy, art interventions and installations will be rolled out in conjunction with the re-development of public spaces and streets.

Networking

The arts, culture and heritage sectors admit to be fragmented regarding communication, interaction and joint action, resulting in poor support from the City and other spheres of government.

Consequently, Johannesburg is proposing a Sectoral Advisory Forum, with the aim of bringing together major stakeholders like the SABC, Witwatersrand and Johannesburg universities, the City and provincial arts and culture departments, the National Arts Council, Constitution Hill, the Arts Alive Consortium, the Market Theatre Foundation, and the co-ordinator of the Inner City Arts Network.

This will be enhanced with the creation of an internally and externally connected Sectoral Network that will operate through irregular networking events and a web-based virtual space for day-to-day interactions between organisations.

By September the City plans to convene the Inner City Sectoral Advisory Forum that will be backed up by a web-based information-sharing portal.

Cultural capital

The City aims to enhance further the perception of Joburg as the cultural capital of South Africa, through a number of interventions. Already the SABC is located in Auckland Park and there are various film-related industries in the suburb; Joburg is also "the clear continental leader in training for the creative and cultural industries".

Among these is the World Summit on Arts and Culture, to take place in 2009, and the Gauteng Creative Industries Development Framework.

The City plans to produce a promotional strategy by March 2008 that will profile the inner city as a cultural capital. In addition, Joburg will promote the concept of a pan-African rotating "City of Culture" through consultation with the national Department of Arts and Culture, the African Union, and other relevant bodies. The concept will be launched at the 2009 world summit.

Improving cultural offerings

It is felt that the current programme of inner city arts and culture events is not being optimised in terms of quantity, diversity, consistency and accessibility. The reasons are many but relate largely to finance and venue constraints.

The City's desired outcome is to increase audience figures for various events it holds, for museums, galleries and heritage sites in the inner city.

It will do this by means of a print and online What's On calendar; a fund for special events will be created, together with the Gauteng department of sports, recreation, arts and culture; Museum Africa will be refurbished; the City Hall will also undergo a refurbishment to equip it for meetings and music events; and a mining museum will be developed.

All venues will be re-assessed with consideration for disabled visitors.

Supporting production

Johannesburg is the "continental capital" for media production as well as the training centre for the creative and cultural industries.

The City aims to "help uncover and nurture creative talent", and assist in developing creative industry endeavours. This will be done by means of an agency that will offer advice, space and start-up loans. The City plans to help establish 100 new start-up spaces, primarily in the east end of the CBD.

Heritage

Johannesburg has been under pressure to accommodate both the development and heritage lobbies in the revamping of the CBD. This has often led to disagreements, resulting in delays in taking decisions.

The City plans to establish new protocols and principles governing re-development of the inner city with key heritage agencies. "This will balance the interests of large scale development in the inner city and the need to preserve precious heritage, inter alia by clarifying how heritage decisions can be speeded up."

In closing the summit, the City manager, Mavela Dlamini, said, "We want an inclusive city - not a city for some, but a city for all."

He encouraged people to submit more suggestions and ideas, via e-mail, to Graeme Gotz at graemeg@joburg.org.za or Neil Fraser at neil@urbaninc.co.za. "Come and interact with our officials," he said. The final charter is expected in July this year.

"Once we have got the inner city right, we will get every other square inch of the city right."

joburg

May 10th, 2007, 11:06 PM

Sorry for not being enthusiastic about this plan because it should have been in place a long time ago. Look at Cape Town which put together a comprehensive regeneration plan and implemented it and now they are reaping the rewards!! Joburg is more talk and little action. How long does it take to ask the metro cops to stop hiding around the highway bridges and hanging at the shopping malls and go to the city and help keep the place safe.

Yeah.. there are plans galore. I think the city has done a lot of work - it's just that we're not seeing the same success that Cape Town has had (yet). But you do get areas like Braamfontein and Gandhi Square that have been public/private initiatives which has shown some measure of success. But I agree that these plans could do with a great deal more of implementing!

The other aspect that is important is sustainability... The city was spruced up nicely for the Rugby World Cup, as well as the World Summit, but then the efforts made are largely forgotten by the city, which is a pity!

Pule

May 11th, 2007, 05:14 AM

Gents, I drove to Jewel City yesterday after wor just to see what's cooking. I must tell you that workers are busy on almost every corner and the area is actually huge.

As I was driving there, I could really feel the spirit of inner city regeneration greeping on me as I see the cleanliness and the number of buildings that are being renovated. I will take my camera when I go there next time. There's workers busy on almost every street and the building are getting more and more healthier.

Jozi have come a long way and there's still much to do but hey, we must say big ups to the like of Amos Masondo, Neil Fraser and others for doing such a great job to revive our Jozi. I hope in the next coming year or 2 we gonna see Hillbrow being attacked by developers so that it fits well with the inner city.

waltjie

May 11th, 2007, 09:16 AM

Flew into Joburg last night over the CBD.... oh man..... what a sight!

Pule

May 11th, 2007, 09:58 AM

Flew into Joburg last night over the CBD.... oh man..... what a sight!

Waltjie, I think we need to call it the bling city. To get a better view of it you need to drive M2 West and then take M1 North, that means you would have covered 2 sites of the city.

I LOVE JOBURG, cant wait to see it in 2010. :banana:

waltjie

May 11th, 2007, 10:16 AM

I was out of town for the whole week, so it was really great to fly in right over the CBD and see that Telkom Tower is alive again! And i really like that MASSIVE MTN screen thing they've put on the Trustbank Building.... looks soooo cool.

KomSakkie

May 11th, 2007, 10:15 PM

joburg

May 12th, 2007, 12:11 AM

I'm sure one day... The top of the Carlton is still open at least. And it's very in right now to have rooftop parties, especially with the art crowd. Went to a gallery opening of 4th year Fine Arts students' contemporary art last night at the Substation in Braamfontein. the Substation is the gallery owned by the Wits School of Art. it's funky..

Molokai

May 14th, 2007, 10:15 AM

Do you think their ever going to re open the hillbrow tower to the public again. Back in the day there were 6 public decks with 360 views of the city, 2 restraunts, one rotating and was still used as a telecomunication (sorry for the spelling) tower. This is an intersting artcle about it. quite old but still http://www.joburg.org.za/aug_2002/hillbrow.stm.

It will never happen. Telkom now owns the tower and the floor that use to host the rotating restaurant, is now a floor full of microwave equipment. I have had the honor of going up the tower. Actually spent a few weeks up there in 1999 and 2000. The revolving floor was still there back then. But it does not work anymore.

One of the reasons it will never reopen is due to security, if they reopen the place to the public one of SA's most critical telecommunications links will be open to sabotage. So unless Telkom moves out of the tower which is highly unlikely, the rotating restaurant will never return.

Even if it was reopened it will not be safe. Telkom has to replace the microwave dishes often, this is due to the guys in Hillbrow target shooting at the microwave dishes when ever they feel like it. Imagine sitting up there, enjoying the view and a beer and having a few bullets going over your head.

It however is an amazing tower. The view from the top is amazing. I remember actually looking down onto the roof of the Ponte building, which is by the way about 50 floors high.

SA BOY

May 14th, 2007, 10:35 AM

molokai did you ever get pics of the tower from inside?

Molokai

May 14th, 2007, 11:04 AM

molokai did you ever get pics of the tower from inside?

I can tell you what, pictures on the inside, they are probably like hens teeth. Security there was very strict, you were not allowed to take a camera. You even had to produce your ID book to go in, even if you were a Telkom employee.

I don't know about nowadays with all the camera cellphones, but I would imagine that they just as strict and maybe make you leave your phone below.

Below the tower, a huge steel cage covers the entire parking garage etc. This is to protect the cars and people in the area below the tower from flying objects. People in the flts throw everything and anything out of there windows. I remember looking up to the top of the steel cage and seing the most amazing things, from old car tyres to old car parts to just plain rubbish.

I think i have a few pictures taken from the bottom of the tower looking up. I will see if I can find them and post them.

waltjie

May 14th, 2007, 11:09 AM

What a pitty.... gosh, even if they could just open a little part of it, just as an observation deck or summin..... that would be awesome....

Molokai

May 14th, 2007, 11:20 AM

What a pitty.... gosh, even if they could just open a little part of it, just as an observation deck or summin..... that would be awesome....

Yea, all i have are memories. Its really high, if you look at the tower, the steel railings are only up to your waist, so if you look over its easy to fall over. You actually get dizzy, the tower sways a lot. I also had the privaledge of going onto the roof of the tower. When you are on the roof there is still the steel mast, thats even higher. The Telkom guys have to climb up the steel mast to the top to change the airoplane warning light.

SA BOY

May 14th, 2007, 02:38 PM

I can tell you what, pictures on the inside, they are probably like hens teeth. Security there was very strict, you were not allowed to take a camera. You even had to produce your ID book to go in, even if you were a Telkom employee.

I don't know about nowadays with all the camera cellphones, but I would imagine that they just as strict and maybe make you leave your phone below.

Below the tower, a huge steel cage covers the entire parking garage etc. This is to protect the cars and people in the area below the tower from flying objects. People in the flts throw everything and anything out of there windows. I remember looking up to the top of the steel cage and seing the most amazing things, from old car tyres to old car parts to just plain rubbish.

I think i have a few pictures taken from the bottom of the tower looking up. I will see if I can find them and post them.

Whats the decor like, I imagine its like a 70s time warp? are the lifts quick?

Molokai

May 14th, 2007, 03:37 PM

The building inside is very old. Most of the old Telkom buiildings are dated and look like homeaffairs, cream walls, pink marley tiles etc... Once you inside you can see its a old building, the stairway is made of steel and its quiet frightening looking down the hollow centre between the steps.

The lift is old but still very quick.

The whole building is apparently built on a rubber foundation, this is so that it can sway in the wind. It really was and still is something amazing, its just a pitty that its right in the middle of hillbrow and does not get much recognition. I wonder how long it will still be able to stand, surely its dated by now. It really was in its time an icon.

Inertia

May 14th, 2007, 04:03 PM

I found an old photo of my dad's of an aerial view of the hillbrow tower being built.. will try and find it and post it

N.I.C.E.

May 14th, 2007, 09:50 PM

It would be cool to have any kind of overview of hotels being planned in Joburg for the world cup. From what I see in other threads Cape Town seems to be planning many hotels. I wonder if there will be a shortage of hotel rooms in Joburg for the world cup......

waltjie

May 15th, 2007, 10:08 AM

SA BOY

May 15th, 2007, 07:21 PM

I found an old photo of my dad's of an aerial view of the hillbrow tower being built.. will try and find it and post it

that would be cool to see

Jakes1

May 16th, 2007, 10:49 AM

Some news concerning melrose arch:

I read in the Beeld newspaper that melrose arch will eventually consist of 300 000m2 of retail, residential and office space! of this close to 180 000m2 is already built or under construction.

So what's going on next to the M1:

Residential?
The lincoln was canned - but it will be relaunched with office, retail and residential space included.
Melrose on Oak lane is going up - 67 apartments, of which more than 50 has been sold.

Office?
28 000m2 of offices: Offices on the Piazza
10 000m2 of offices: The Crecent
The R113million 1 Melrose Boulevard: 24 offices ranging from 100m2 - 500m2 in size.
The R240million 3 Melrose Boulevard: 18 offices ranging from 500m2 - 2400m2.

Retail?
28 000m2 of retail and leisure - Melrose Arch Shopping

The Park is also undergoing a R5million facelift and various other amenities will be part of this - playgrounds, ablution etc.

All of the above will be incorporated into the Melrose Precinct.

waltjie

May 16th, 2007, 11:44 AM

i was hoping the construction noise was coming to an end soon....... :ohno:

Jakes1

May 16th, 2007, 11:47 AM

i was hoping the construction noise was coming to an end soon....... :ohno:

Sorry mate - not until 2010 - that is when all the different phases at melrose should be complete./

hsark

May 16th, 2007, 01:26 PM

hope this aint old news
Malaysian firm to build R12bn Soweto-Jo'burg monorail
By: Mariaan Olivier
Published: 15 May 07 - 12:57

Soweto and the Johannesburg city centre will soon be linked by a R12-billion monorail, which can transport over 1,5-million commuters a day, the Gauteng provincial government said this week.

Gauteng would sign a deal for the construction of the hybrid monorial carrier and related infrastructure along a corridor, such as shopping malls and residential areas, with a private investor on Wednesday.

This forms part of the provincial government's plans to implement an integrated transport system and consolidate the province as an economic and logistic hub.

The integrated monorail corridor project, which would be fully financed by a Malaysian company, would source all infrastructure and rolling stock in Gauteng, creating a number of jobs in the province.

The province is South Africa’s fastest growing region, but transport infrastructure has not kept up with the increased number of vehicles on the road.

To alleviate the traffic congestion between Pretoria, Johannesburg and OR Tambo International Airport, Gauteng is building the R25,1-billion Gautrain rapid-rail link. But government has been criticised for not investing in transport systems in formerly disadvantaged areas and that Gautrain was targeting a higher-income group.

Transport will also play an important role in the 2010 soccer World Cup, as three of the official stadiums are located in Gauteng, with Johannesburg, Soweto and Pretoria hosting games.

:banana: :banana:

Jakes1

May 16th, 2007, 02:08 PM

its not old news!!!

waltjie

May 16th, 2007, 04:37 PM

What is the source of this? Dont get me wrong, it would be AWESOME x 10000, but I cannot believe we have heard nothing about this....??

waltjie

May 16th, 2007, 04:40 PM

JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) - International investors led by a Malaysian entrepreneur said they plan to invest 12 billion rand in a light rail system in South Africa's financial hub, where traffic jams have become the order of the day.

Construction is due to start in September on the monorail line, which will run between the black township of Soweto and the Johannesburg city centre starting in November 2009, in time for the FIFA 2010 World Cup.

The group, called Newcycv (New Sight Vision), said this will be the first of its planned ventures to improve South Africa's transport system.

"Our vision is for 2020. We are speaking to the government on a daily basis, and we want South Africa's transportation to be 100 percent efficient by then," said JK Varathan, head of Newcycv, in a statement.

South Africa's government plans to invest over 417 billion rand in infrastructure, including transportation, over the next three years, but Newcycv is going at it alone on the monorail.

"The first phase is 100 percent funded by us. Nobody was willing to take the risk individually," Varathan said, although declining to name other members of the investor consortium.

"Africa is where things will happen in the next few decades. So if we can get in quickly, through South Africa, we can go anywhere in Africa," he added.

Millions of people in South Africa's sprawling urban and semi-urban areas rely on minibus taxis and the rail system. Minibus taxis have been called "mobile coffins" due to the high rate of accidents, and trains are often late and unreliable.

South Africa's road network, while developed, is struggling to keep up with the number of cars and trucks, and Johannesburg, the country's financial heart, often approaches standstill in peak traffic.

Many people are pinning their hopes on the government's own rapid rail link between Johannesburg and Pretoria -- to start running in 2010 -- but critics have said ticket prices will make it unaffordable for South Africa's poor in the townships.

Newcycv said the monorail project would create up to 5,000 jobs during construction and another 2,500 permanent jobs.

"This project ... will go a long way in assisting us to position the province as a competitive global city region with a strong, reliable and affordable public transport system," said Keith Khoza, head of the Gauteng provincial development body.

waltjie

May 16th, 2007, 04:42 PM

R12bn monorail for Gauteng

May 16, 2007, 13:15

A R12 billion monorail will be built between Johannesburg and Soweto in the next two years, it was announced today.

It would be a private sector initiative not funded by the government and was expected to create more than 5 000 jobs, Paul Mashatile, the Gauteng finance and economic affairs MEC, and Ignatius Jacob, the public transport road and works MEC, said.

The 44.7km monorail would have 39 stations, said Jeyakumar Varathan, CEO of Newcycv, the Malaysian consortium behind the project. Mashatile said the monorail was intended to complement existing motor transport and not to compete with it.

Problems outlined
"The problem in South Africa when it comes to public transport is not competition, the problem is people queue for three to four hours (for transport).”... We want to move people; move them efficiently; move them safely; move them in an affordable way..." "By 2009 no-one from Soweto should have to wait more than 15 minutes for transport," said Mashatile.

Construction on the monorail is scheduled to start in September. Monorails are light trains with rubber wheels which run on overhead concrete beams. These rests on six metre high pillars built in the centre median of road carriageways. They are said to make little noise or vibrations and almost no pollution. They can run on electricity or solar powered batteries.

Jacobs said it was hoped the monorail would move 1.5 million passengers a day between Soweto and Johannesburg to ease congestion on the roads.

Varathan said tickets were expected to cost up to R10 a journey, expected to take 45 minutes at an average 40km an hour, but with a peak speed of 80km an hour. However Jacobs emphasised that ticket prices would depend on the length of the journey.

He said the system of stations was designed to encourage inner-city travelling in Soweto, between shopping centres, stadia and major heritage sites. - Sapa

waltjie

May 16th, 2007, 04:50 PM

A R12-billion monorail will be built between Johannesburg and Soweto in the next two years, it was announced on Wednesday.

"By 2009, no one from Soweto should have to wait more than 15 minutes for transport," Gauteng finance and economic affairs minister Paul Mashatile said at the launch of the project in Sandton.

Work on the 44,7km monorail and its 39 stations will start in September.

The monorail is intended to complement and not compete against existing forms of transport, said Mashatile. "The problem in South Africa when it comes to public transport is not competition; the problem is people queue for three to four hours [for transport].

He added: "We want to move people: move them efficiently; move them safely; move them in an affordable way."

It is hoped the monorail will move 1,5-million passengers a day between Soweto and Johannesburg, to ease congestion on the roads.

The monorail service will consist of 4,5m-high, rubber-wheeled, carbon-fibre carriages, 10m long and 3m wide -- able to carry 107 passengers each. These will run on concrete beams atop 6m-tall pillars situated mainly on the centre medians between road carriageways, and will dock at aerial stations accessed via escalators.

The hybrid variety used in South Africa will run on a combination of electricity and solar-powered batteries.

Costs
The monorail is expected to cost about R173-million a kilometre to build, but none of this will be borne by the government.

The project is a private-sector initiative by the Malaysian investment consortium Newcyc Vision, with which Mashatile, Gauteng public transport, road and works minister Ignatius Jacobs and Gauteng Economic Development Agency CEO Keith Khoza signed a deal on Wednesday.

Newcyc has been given three months to find black economic empowerment partners. Its CEO, Jeyakumar Varathan, has invited both small local development companies and big civil construction companies to present the consortium with their profiles.

He said that while raw materials are being sourced outside South Africa because of present local shortages, construction will take place in the country at a factory in Mogale City next to the Merafong Hospital.

Built on 20ha of land provided by the Gauteng government, the factory will be the hub of monorail developments throughout Africa.

Taxi industry
Sicelo Mabaso, chairperson of the National Taxi Alliance, told the Mail & Guardian Online on Wednesday afternoon that the new "high quality" modes of transportation being implemented will inevitably encroach on the province's taxi industry.

"The parallel processes of government, things like the monorail and the BRT [Bus Rapid Transit], all that and all these types of modes are fighting against taxi operations," Mabaso said.

He compared the current situation of taxi drivers to that of small traders put out of business by the emergence of big shopping malls, saying the plan seems to be to have these modes of transport ready in time for the 2010 Soccer World Cup when "commuters will obviously turn to these high-quality modes instead of taxis".

Mabaso said it is only a perception that commuters have to queue constantly to get taxis.

"It is only during peak hours in the morning and evening … for the rest of the day, taxis wait at the ranks for people to come. We are not making so much money; we only have business for a few hours a day. Now it is going to be worse than it is today," he said.

Secret process
Jacobs said he first proposed that the idea of a monorail for Gauteng be explored in his 2002 strategic agenda for transport.

However, year-long work on a feasibility study for the project had been kept largely secret until now to prevent any escalation in the prices of land, among other things, said Mashatile.

The monorail is not expected to result in expropriations similar to those caused by the construction of the Gautrain, and only minimal disruption is expected "because we're going up. This is a sky bridge," said Jacobs. "We are convinced we are entering a new era of modernising public transport to our province. It's a revolution."

Instead of being run by computerised high technology, the South African service will be labour intensive -- in the interests of creating jobs and reducing poverty, he said.

The project is expected to create 100 permanent jobs a kilometre. It will create 5 000 jobs during construction with another 2 400 at the factory.

While round-trip tickets are expected to cost R10 each, rides between stations will cost less, to encourage inner-city travelling in Soweto -- between shopping centres, stadiums and major heritage sites.

The entire route will take 45 minutes to cover at an average speed of 40km/h, with a peak speed of 80km/h. Trains will run every 10 to 15 minutes and every three minutes during peak times.

romanSA

May 16th, 2007, 05:05 PM

I think it's awesome!!!!

Here's a lot more info on the matter. It's headline news in the Mail and Guardian site....

---------------------------------

Travel in the sky from Jo'burg to Soweto

Sumayya Ismail and Sapa | Johannesburg, South Africa

16 May 2007 03:24

A R12-billion monorail will be built between Johannesburg and Soweto in the next two years, it was announced on Wednesday.

"By 2009, no one from Soweto should have to wait more than 15 minutes for transport," Gauteng finance and economic affairs minister Paul Mashatile said at the launch of the project in Sandton.

Work on the 44,7km monorail and its 39 stations will start in September.

The monorail is intended to complement and not compete against existing forms of transport, said Mashatile. "The problem in South Africa when it comes to public transport is not competition; the problem is people queue for three to four hours [for transport].

He added: "We want to move people: move them efficiently; move them safely; move them in an affordable way."

It is hoped the monorail will move 1,5-million passengers a day between Soweto and Johannesburg, to ease congestion on the roads.

The monorail service will consist of 4,5m-high, rubber-wheeled, carbon-fibre carriages, 10m long and 3m wide -- able to carry 107 passengers each. These will run on concrete beams atop 6m-tall pillars situated mainly on the centre medians between road carriageways, and will dock at aerial stations accessed via escalators.

The hybrid variety used in South Africa will run on a combination of electricity and solar-powered batteries.

Costs
The monorail is expected to cost about R173-million a kilometre to build, but none of this will be borne by the government.

The project is a private-sector initiative by the Malaysian investment consortium Newcyc Vision, with which Mashatile, Gauteng public transport, road and works minister Ignatius Jacobs and Gauteng Economic Development Agency CEO Keith Khoza signed a deal on Wednesday.

Newcyc has been given three months to find black economic empowerment partners. Its CEO, Jeyakumar Varathan, has invited both small local development companies and big civil construction companies to present the consortium with their profiles.

He said that while raw materials are being sourced outside South Africa because of present local shortages, construction will take place in the country at a factory in Mogale City next to the Merafong Hospital.

Built on 20ha of land provided by the Gauteng government, the factory will be the hub of monorail developments throughout Africa.

Taxi industry
Sicelo Mabaso, chairperson of the National Taxi Alliance, told the Mail & Guardian Online on Wednesday afternoon that the new "high quality" modes of transportation being implemented will inevitably encroach on the province's taxi industry.

"The parallel processes of government, things like the monorail and the BRT [Bus Rapid Transit], all that and all these types of modes are fighting against taxi operations," Mabaso said.

He compared the current situation of taxi drivers to that of small traders put out of business by the emergence of big shopping malls, saying the plan seems to be to have these modes of transport ready in time for the 2010 Soccer World Cup when "commuters will obviously turn to these high-quality modes instead of taxis".

Mabaso said it is only a perception that commuters have to queue constantly to get taxis.

"It is only during peak hours in the morning and evening … for the rest of the day, taxis wait at the ranks for people to come. We are not making so much money; we only have business for a few hours a day. Now it is going to be worse than it is today," he said.

Secret process
Jacobs said he first proposed that the idea of a monorail for Gauteng be explored in his 2002 strategic agenda for transport.

However, year-long work on a feasibility study for the project had been kept largely secret until now to prevent any escalation in the prices of land, among other things, said Mashatile.

The monorail is not expected to result in expropriations similar to those caused by the construction of the Gautrain, and only minimal disruption is expected "because we're going up. This is a sky bridge," said Jacobs. "We are convinced we are entering a new era of modernising public transport to our province. It's a revolution."

Instead of being run by computerised high technology, the South African service will be labour intensive -- in the interests of creating jobs and reducing poverty, he said.

The project is expected to create 100 permanent jobs a kilometre. It will create 5 000 jobs during construction with another 2 400 at the factory.

While round-trip tickets are expected to cost R10 each, rides between stations will cost less, to encourage inner-city travelling in Soweto -- between shopping centres, stadiums and major heritage sites.

The entire route will take 45 minutes to cover at an average speed of 40km/h, with a peak speed of 80km/h. Trains will run every 10 to 15 minutes and every three minutes during peak times.

http://www.mg.co.za/articlePage.aspx?articleid=308590&area=/breaking_news/breaking_news__national/

romanSA

May 16th, 2007, 05:07 PM

Oops. Sorry for the double post! I think we were posting almost simultaneously, Waltjie!

waltjie

May 16th, 2007, 05:07 PM

Ive started a thread for this under 'Projects' - let's post all regarding this new venture in there.....

waltjie

May 16th, 2007, 05:08 PM

Oops. Sorry for the double post! I think we were posting almost simultaneously, Waltjie!

I don't blame you! The excitement is overwhelming right now...... hahaha

joburg

May 16th, 2007, 10:26 PM

WOW!!!!!!

That is FUGGIN AWESOME! :)

I'm sure it'll link up with the Gautrain stations too.

hsark

May 17th, 2007, 10:04 AM

yea ps guys the route is on the front of the star so is the render of the train looks guud can some one get a scan ill do it if no 1 else will but dont wanna buy a news paper :)

joburg

May 17th, 2007, 12:06 PM

Some interesting reading for ya'll...

http://upetd.up.ac.za/thesis/available/etd-01182006-142223/

An idea by this dude to turn the Barbican into a members club, a champagne bar, a hotel and apartments.

He says that this might become a reality, starting year-end..

Jakes1

May 18th, 2007, 10:01 AM

Gotta get my tickets!

Teatro is ready
for the lion king
Opening night of the South African production of The Lion King is drawing near, with the cast already settled in the R100-million Teatro built specifically for the musical. Previews start on 22 May.

May 17, 2007
By Lesego Madumo

THE lion's den is ready for the king; the R100-million futuristic Teatro, purpose-built for The Lion King, is ready to host the South African production of the acclaimed show.

Previews begin on Tuesday, 22 May, and the local premiere is on Wednesday, 6 June at the Teatro in Montecasino, Fourways.

Much of the show's music is by South African born Grammy Award winning composer and producer Lebo M.

"The Lion King has had a South African connection since its world premiere at the Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis, before its transfer to Broadway [in New York] in 1997," says the co-producer of the local production, Pieter Toerien.

The impresario says that his highlights of the show are the costumes, which cost R15-million, the music, and the excellent performances. "It is the best show you've ever seen. Don't miss it."

Tyson Ekertone as Simba and Jay Laga'ala as Mufasa as seen in the Australian Production of the Lion King
(Photo: James Morgan)

Previews, beginning on 22 May, are an opportunity for the actors to "settle themselves and judge their performances in front of an audience, so that when the full show premieres they are ready for it".

The cast includes veteran actors like Sello Maake Ka-Ncube, who plays Mufasa, a role that he also played in London; Buyisile Zama, who plays Rafiki; and Mark Rayment, who is the evil Scar.

Pierre van Heerden and Peter Mashiga portray Timon and Pumba, while the young Simba is played by Andile Gumbi.

Also in lead roles are Candida Mosoma as Shenzi, Lyall Ramsden as Zazu, Michael Bagg as Ed, Simon Gwala as Bazai, Tsholo Monedi as Nala, and Zoe Mthiyane as Sarabi.

South Africa is the tenth country to put on the musical, in the year that it celebrates its tenth anniversary on Broadway. It is also the first theatrical Disney production with a cast 100 percent selected from the country in which it is showing.

There are 53 performers and a technical crew of 70, with a 20-member orchestra.

The renowned international theatre consultant and designer, Martin McCallum, was appointed by Montecasino to design the theatre. The Teatro is a futuristic theatre specially built for the hit musical show; the cast has already settled in to its home.

Simba, the hero of the show and son of the lion king, leaves the Pridelands as a cub, after his father's death. The musical follows his journey and struggles with the responsibilities of manhood and his future role as the lion king. Simba eventually returns home to overthrow his evil uncle and to reclaim his father's throne.

In all, about 52 million people around the world - in Australia, Britain, Canada, China, Germany, Holland, Japan, South Korea and the United States - have already seen The Lion King.

The musical is co-produced by Lebo M and Pieter Toerien with Bongani Tembe as associate producer. It is showing at the Teatro at Montecasino, Fourways, in Joburg, from 6 June to 9 September.

Tickets prices range from R150 to R450 each and booking is at Computicket on 011 340 8000, through the Computicket website or at the Montecasino box office. For group bookings of 20 or more, call Geraldine on 011 511 1988 or email her on Geraldine@montetheatre.co.za.

SA BOY

May 19th, 2007, 09:13 AM

saw it in Sydney and its fantastic, really worth the effort

Pule

May 21st, 2007, 09:50 AM

DEMAND for residential units in Johannesburg’s inner city continues to be strong.

Aengus Lifestyle Properties, a joint venture between listed property company ApexHi and Aengus Property Holdings, says there was a massive response to its recent offer to sell units in its Lofts@66 residential development on the corner of Smal and Pritchard streets. The units were sold out in three days.

Aengus Property Holdings MD Richard Rubin says Aengus Lifestyle Properties made a decision initially to keep all its residential developments as rental stock. But in February, after receiving requests from the group’s tenants and investors, it decided to make up to 700 apartments across its range of developments in Johannesburg and Durban available for purchase.

Rubin says investors approached them because they found other inner-city property investments expensive. “They also would be taking a development risk if they bought off plan in a new development. There was also no guarantee those units in new developments would be tenanted.”

Because of this, investors were keen to acquire existing units.

“Our units are 100% let and our tenants are income-earners earning between R9000 and R12000 a month.”

Rubin says all 150 units in Lofts@66 were put up for sale, with sales of R46m-R48m being achieved. On average, the units sold for R320000. “The way we came to our costing was, we asked how much are we actually achieving for rentals?”

Durbsboi

May 21st, 2007, 01:55 PM

I cant believe that this news is not in here, Newcyc the Malaysian investors whom plan to build the monorail link for Joburg are also planning to build their HQ in Joburg CBD, it will be a 64 storey twin tower development. The investors hope that their project in the CBD will urge other companies to invest in the CBD as well so that their project serves as a construction catalyst for more construction to follow suit. the render was in yesterdays finance section in the Sunday Tribune, will try & find it & post it

waltjie

May 21st, 2007, 02:17 PM

Martsbra

May 21st, 2007, 03:57 PM

Sounds D O D G E

Inertia

May 21st, 2007, 04:06 PM

Check the monorail thread in projects.. Plenty of discussion abt it

dysan1

May 21st, 2007, 07:49 PM

ya saw the pic and article in the Sunday tribune too. Its now reaching fantasy proportions

Durbsboi

May 22nd, 2007, 09:09 AM

& to be quite honest, the design looked like crap

SA BOY

May 22nd, 2007, 09:46 AM

lets see then

Jakes1

May 22nd, 2007, 11:52 AM

& to be quite honest, the design looked like crap

I agree, a blackish silver bug thing - actually looks like a bug that crashed into a car windscreen...

Jakes1

May 22nd, 2007, 03:31 PM

Eastern CBD takes
off with more lofts
Fresh from his work in Milpark, property developer Ricci Polack has crossed the city and is turning old buildings into desirable living spaces on the eastern edge of the CBD.

May 21, 2007
By Lucille Davie

HIS first factory-to-loft conversion was in Milpark; he called it The Refinery. Now he's working on another conversion; and he's going to call it The Distillery.

Property entrepreneur Ricci Polack created 37 lofts in The Refinery in 2003, with a further 27 lofts around the corner in Frost Avenue. He plans to create 17 lofts in The Distillery, where work is to begin mid-year.

And, after buying and converting factory space on the periphery of the CBD, Polack is now smack bang in the CBD. "If we're going to be in Joburg, we must be in Joburg," he says emphatically.

And he'll be making a bang. The pavement surrounding his buildings on Berea Street will be extended outwards two metres, so that a piazza will spill out of the building, running into a space between two buildings.

Walking in to the piazza, the present industrial yard will be transformed with a swimming pool and a garden, plus parking, with loft balconies overlooking the central courtyard. There'll also be a restaurant and a private art collection taking up the top floor.

Some of the space will be converted into six or seven offices, to be called Corlett House.

Polack bought four buildings and a warehouse in mid-2006, in Berea Road, between Main and Fox streets. The building fronting Berea Road was occupied by DF Corlett, a master builder and the mayor of Johannesburg from 1931 to 1932.

Corlett Drive in Illovo was named after him; he also built St Stithian's School and the Rand Airport. Polack bought Corlett's original desk, chair and safe, and two grand old Chevrolets, one a 1937 model and the other dating from 1946.

The building was built in 1911 for William McBain, who used it as a liquor store.

Moving downtown
Polack plans to move his office and business, Lifestyle Lofts, from another development he's been involved in, the Frost Avenue lofts in Milpark, to the Distillery. In Frost Avenue he is completing 27 lofts, complementing the six offices already on site.
But he is excited about the Corlett House development. "This is exactly what I set out to look for 10 years ago – the real loft thing."

Polack is also busy elsewhere in the city: he is doing another conversion in Braamfontein, creating offices and film studios, in a building on the corner of Smit and Henri streets. In the plans are three studios with 8m high ceilings, for the Afda film school.

"So many people want film studios," he says, "Johannesburg is the centre for international shoots in South Africa."

In addition, Polack has bought a building in Jeppestown that he plans to convert into flats for his construction workers. Plans include 36 small flats for sale, as well as for a series of rooms with communal kitchen and bathrooms to let, on the ground floor.

The block will contain a lounge, playroom, laundry, computer room and garden. He wants to make sure people are happy at home, because that means they'll be happy at work.

Other eastern CBD developments
Polack only found out later that his Corlett House conversion coincides with developments across the road, at Jewel City.
There the City is spending R14-million on revamping the precinct and giving it an identity of its own. This started in January and will be finished in July. It involves street upgrades, artwork, new lighting, street furniture like benches, paving and kerbing, much-needed trees, and developing gateways at the entrances to the precinct.

About R7-billion changes hands every year in the precinct, which includes offices and workshops for about 300 diamond dealers and manufacturers.

There have been several loft developments on this side of town over the past few years. In 2006, the five-storey August House in End Street, formerly a small-scale factory building, was converted into loft and studio space, with an international art gallery opening on its ground floor.

In 2003, an old factory building at the far southern end of End Street was also converted into loft living space.

Anne Steffny, the executive director of the Central Johannesburg Partnership, a section 21 company involved in the regeneration of the inner city, says that some R40-million has been spent by private property owners on public space upgrades since 2000, including in Main Street, Braamfontein, Gandhi Square, and around the high court.

At the same time, these owners have pumped some R6,5-billion into investments in the city over the past five years. Planned investment by them between now and 2010 totals R12-billion, she says.

Pule

May 22nd, 2007, 03:31 PM

Removed, same post as Jakes. It was 03:31 when I posted. Jakes that means we clicked the post button at the same time.

Jakes1

May 23rd, 2007, 12:25 PM

haha!

joburg

May 24th, 2007, 08:50 AM

The two sides of Joburg
http://business.iafrica.com/features/889567.htm
Tue, 22 May 2007

Johannesburg is showing phenomenal population and physical growth as it reinvents itself, but the process is exhibiting extraordinary contrasts of regeneration and decay, experts have said.

In 120 years, the city has grown from a population of 200 to its current estimate of just under four million in a wider city-region of nine million people. It is growing at between three to four percent per annum with the population expected to double in 17 years.

Moreover, the city alone generates one fifth of South Africa's wealth and is home to 70 percent of corporate headquarters.

'Phenomenal growth'

"The growth has been phenomenal from a physical point of view," said Neil Fraser, a partner in urban consultancy Urban Inc, at a recent Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS) forum.

The period of decline — from 1990 to 2000 — saw relatively low new capital investment, mainly from the private sector. From 2001 to 2006, however, this increased to R6.5-billion, of which R2.5-billion was from the public sector.

Of the R4-billion from the private sector, 50 percent was in residential refurbishments, conversions and new developments, providing approximately 10 000 units, he said.

Gautrain project

Some current core CBD infrastructure projects are the Gautrain station, Gandhi Square, the Faraday Taxi Rank and Multimarket, the Rissik Street Post Office, the Kerk Street Linear Market and the Legal Precinct upgrade.

Fraser added there were 9655 inner city property transfers between 1996 and 2006, with a total value of R6-billion, with 73 percent by value occurring between 2001 and 2006. He noted that when the city starts cleaning up the public environment in an area, people respond by buying up properties.

Anticipated capital expenditure on known projects over the next three to five years could be in the order of R15-billion.

Spatial differences

Dr Philip Harrison, executive director of Development Planning and Urban Management for the City of Johannesburg, said the multiple trends are taking the city both towards and away from the objective of being a world class African city for all. He said there were complex and highly differentiated patterns of change shaping the city.

The spatial differences for one were glaring, with very wealthy areas like Sandton contrasting with the 250 informal settlements in the city area.

Despite this, there are numerous positive trends in the city, which includes political and leadership, stability and an active opposition, improved financial management, the tarring of Soweto's roads and reducing water wastage, as well as innovative projects such as the Cosmo City mixed use development.

Power problems loom

At the same time there are mixed trends, such as the spatially concentrated economic growth of about 5.3 percent, the high but declining crime rates, and mixed patterns of regeneration and decay in the inner city. There is an emergent system of urban management, but there are still management problems in many areas, Harrison said.

The negative trends in the city are the ageing and deteriorating infrastructural networks across large parts of the city with some serious problems with power, water supply, and road infrastructure on the northern edge.

Housing delivery is accelerating but there are growing housing backlogs as the city struggles to cope with urbanisation, very weak public transport, and protected enclaves for the wealthy, with further marginalisation of some of the poorer areas.

Political concerns

The transport problem could be partially addressed with the announcement of a R12-billion monorail linking Johannesburg and Soweto.

Johannesburg also faces major political concerns, including achieving a nine percent growth rate, effective urban management, inner city regeneration, getting public transport right before the FIFA Soccer World Cup in 2010 and formalising informal settlement and accelerating the delivery of housing.

"If Johannesburg is to grow by nine percent, we have got to get the basics right and make sure the city is functioning," he said.

Lael Bethlehem, chief executive officer of the Johannesburg Development Agency, the implementation agency for the city council, said that Johannesburg needs to ask itself how it can stop looking like an apartheid city.

Racial divisions

Growing out of colonisation and apartheid, it has been left with significant racial division and a flood of urbanisation by people previously legally constrained to small areas that left them unable to thrive.

Throughout the 90’s and 2000s, the growth rate in Gauteng was approaching five percent and, said Bethlehem, the population is expected to double in 17 years.

Its per capita income is keeping positive, and between 1996 and 2000, 630 000 new jobs have been created, compared with 20 000 for Cape Town in the same period. However, she added that growth increases in a market economy are matched by an increase in inequality.

"We must have a long term plan. We need to think about where we are in the history of the city and we had better have done something about it when we have doubled the population," Bethlehem said, calling for an alliance of interests in the city to be involved with the city government.

SA BOY

May 24th, 2007, 09:40 AM

good article

Jakes1

May 24th, 2007, 02:04 PM

For anyone interested, quite a few pics posted on johannesburg gallery...

joburg

May 27th, 2007, 10:54 AM

Wonder what one can do with R1-billion?? The city could really improve the environment of these areas with that money. It's COMPLETELY unacceptable that these residents don't pay up!

R1bn debt: City to seize buildings
20 May 2007

By Philani Nombembe

The Joburg Council is owed close to R1 billion in unpaid rates and taxes by inner-city property owners whose buildings are in shambles.

Bad buildings in inner city areas from Bellevue in the northeast, City and Suburban in the south, Fordsburg in the west and Benrose in the east owe the council R949 million, according to the Joburg Property Company.

The inner-city area with the most debt is Joburg, with almost R339 million outstanding on 579 properties.

Hillbrow is next with nearly R236 million owing from 460 buildings.

Plans are in place to expropriate two bad buildings Hillbrow residential blocks Noverna Court and Santa Monica whose owners owe the municipality more than R1.5 million.

Johan van Vuuren, spokes- man for the Joburg Property Company, said the two buildings were unoccupied.

They are being guarded against re-occupation by the homeless so they can be seized by council. Residents of both buildings were recently evicted by Joburg's Inner City task force team.

"The buildings are in a very dilapidated state and are both hygiene and safety hazards.

The Joburg Property Company plans to renovate them as temporary shelters for short-term stays by low-income earners in cases of emergency like floods and fires," he said.

"The two buildings were managed by body corporates empowered to represent the interests of the owners of the sectional-title apartments."

Van Vuuren said the transfer of the buildings was expected to take place within three months.

He said the amount of time it would take depended on the number of sectional-title owners? objections they received before the expiry date.

"Tenders will be sought for the renovation and management of the properties in the near future," he said.

Van Vuuren could not say how much this would cost the council because there "are a number of existing costs which need to be covered, including possible compensation of owners, the deduction of the municipal arrears, eviction, advertising, transfer and legal costs".

To sort out bad buildings, the Joburg Property Company has come up with a Better Buildings Programme, which recommends that the city's revenue department considers writing off bad debt when it is a barrier to the improvement of a derelict building.

"However, this initiative has been delayed by numerous legal battles we have to face in court from NGOs claiming to represent the interests of tenants in these slums," Van Vuuren said.

Sunday Times

SA BOY

May 28th, 2007, 07:58 AM

The council should just demolish old buildings and sell the land with incentivised development rights

Pule

May 28th, 2007, 09:46 AM

Reply from Neil Fraser about Hillbrow's Telkom tower -

"I haven't personally spoken to the Telkom people but I know the city has been engaging them for some time to at least re-open the tower to the public but the last thing I heard they are resisting as it would be a security problem for them. If I can find out I'll let you know"

Jakes1

May 28th, 2007, 03:15 PM

High court
precinct gets some TLC
Right in the heart of the CBD, the Johannesburg High Court is a grand building, befitting its function. Now its surrounds are being revamped in keeping with the court's stature.

May 28, 2007
By Lucille Davie

THE Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) is at it again; this time it's the high court precinct that is getting a facelift.

The majestic former supreme court building - now the Johannesburg High Court - dominates the precinct, with its bronze dome and large, recessed arch entrance surrounded by classical columns. Two two-storey wings stretch out on either side, with rectangular and arched windows framed by smaller columns.

It's a grand building, finished in grey stone, not diminished at all by the surrounding skyscrapers.

About R15-million is being pumped into the revamp by the JDA; it will largely comprise of much-overdue TLC for the streets and pavements immediately surrounding the court. Private sector contributors are Old Mutual, Apex Hi and Pitje Chambers, with contributions of R2,5-million, R2-million and R976 850 respectively.

The pavements are to be widened, and the crossings and intersections are to be paved. Benches and new lighting are to be installed, and the impressive, tall bronze statue of Carl von Brandis, the city's first mining commissioner, is to be given a new look.

At present the statue is enclosed in the metal fence that encircles the court building, but the plan is to take the fence behind the statue, put seating around the statue and give it a small roof. It will also be repatinated. Broken paving slabs in the Smal Street Mall will be replaced, and new paving will link the high court precinct to the fashion district.

The new-look Johannesburg High Court, with paved intersections and pedestrian crossings

Von Brandis is looking westwards, towards the mine dumps, where gold was first mined in the town. The sculptor was David MacGregor, who also made the Miners' Monument statue at the top of Rissik Street. Apparently they were initially one statue, in 1964, but were separated and placed in their respective locations. They were commissioned by the Chamber of Mines as a gift to the city.

Advocates are also being attracted back into the vicinity. Pitje Chambers, with 56 advocates, recently opened plush offices alongside the court in Pritchard Street.

Von Brandis Square
The court, designed by Gordon Leith, was built in 1911, on the site of Von Brandis Square. The early town was laid out with several squares – Government Square, which was renamed Von Brandis Square in 1894; Market Square, now Beyers Naude Square; Church Square, renamed Government Square in 1893, and now called Gandhi Square; Market Plein, later the Union Grounds, opposite the Drill Hall, and now taken up by taxi ranks; and Mary Fitzgerald Square, formerly known as Aaron's Ground, a wagon site.
The court swallowed Von Brandis Square while City Hall, built in 1914, took a large bite out of Market Square.

Von Brandis was the mining commissioner between September and November 1886, his main task being to manage the new town. In 1890 he became the special landdrost, or magistrate, and dispensed justice, initially from his tent.

But he is most well known for proclaiming the gold fields of Johannesburg. He stood on a whisky box, it is said, in front of his tent in Commissioner Street, on 20 September 1886, and proclaimed the fields open for digging from 4 October.

According to Hannes Meiring in Early Johannesburg – its buildings and its people, "Von Brandis is one of the few individuals who had a statue erected to him – appropriately enough on Von Brandis Square, where his second house, The Residency, once stood."

Von Brandis, a German who served in the Hungarian and British armies, was well liked in the mining camp town. "In Johannesburg's first year the administration was in the hands of the mining commissioner, Captain von Brandis, remembered with affection by pioneers for his genial temperament, tact and urbanity," according to D Jacobsson in Fifty golden years of the Rand, 1886-1936.

Colin Gill's 1940 painting depicting Commissioner Carl von Brandis dispensing law in the early mining town

"He needed all these qualities in the discharge of his complex duties, which embraced the settlement of all disputes incidental to life in a mining camp, including those arising from the jumping of claims."

Street names
Von Brandis is also remembered in the naming of a number of streets - alongside the court is Von Brandis Street; there are another three Von Brandis streets in Joburg, and one in Krugersdorp. Commissioner Street is also named after him.
Von Brandis pops up at another court building – the magistrate's court, on the western edge of the CBD. There hangs a large, striking painting in the foyer of the court, of Von Brandis on a horse, holding a scroll and looking down his full white beard at bickering townspeople.

Entitled Settling and dispute by Colin Gill, and dated 1940, the caption reads, "Captain C von Brandis, first landdrost of Johannesburg (1886-1890), settles a digger's dispute on the Rand".

There are several inaccuracies in the painting, though. Von Brandis was lame, the result of a war injury, and couldn't ride a horse. And there is a woman in the painting, yet there were no women in the early mining camp days.

The revamp of the high court precinct started in January and is expected to be finished in November this year.

Jakes1

May 28th, 2007, 03:33 PM

Fifa revamps the city
28 May 2007 - Inet Bridge -

Intro
Big upgrade for stadium precincts

27 May 2007
By Isaac Mahlangu

The world soccer body, Fifa, has set stringent requirements for the neighbourhoods surrounding Joburg's 2010 World Cup stadiums.

Apart from refurbishing FNB and Ellis Park stadiums and increasing their capacities, millions of rands have to be spent improving the stadiums' "precincts" - from parking garages and fan entertainment zones to security measures.

With three years to go before the soccer showpiece kicks off, work is now under way to ensure that the two Joburg venues have their best dresses on long before the guests arrive.

Fifa's requirements include:

Spectator entertainment and parking: the council has to provide multi-level parking garages that are "fenced and guarded", well-lit and signposted. Plenty of parking has to be provided - one car bay for every six spectators, and, for buses, one bay for every 120 spectators.
Parking for media and officials also has to be guarded and well lit.

Fifa stipulates that parking for the disabled be provided with the same lighting and security enjoyed by others.

Security: Fifa's requirements include a closed-circuit television system that has to be able to monitor everything that moves around the stadium precinct - from cars to pedestrians - and the images have to be relayed to a main command centre;
Information: Electronic "spectator orientation" boards have to be erected to inform visitors where they are and where they need to go;
Helicopter facilities: A Civil Aviation Authority-certified temporary helipad has to be built at both stadiums in case there is a need for a helicopter to land - either for VIPs or medical emergencies;
Public toilets need to be spread evenly throughout the stadium areas;
Entertainment: "Fan Entertainment Zones", which include refreshment and merchandise kiosks have to be in place in stadium precincts, as well as well-lit, 2500m² "commercial display areas", which need to have electricity and telephone lines. Public telephones also have to be spread throughout stadium precincts;
Electricity: The stadium areas' power systems, including emergency lighting, have to be able to reach the furthest spectator parking bay. And all pedestrian approaches to the stadium from the furthest public parking area have to be well lit. Public information desks need to have good lighting and Internet connections;
First aid: Temporary spectator first aid zones with reliable electricity, water and good lighting need to be in place;
Storage: Store rooms for confiscated goods (like branded clothing that does not conform to Fifa's marketing rules) and an area dedicated to measures for Fifa rights protection programmes need to be in place; and
Hospitality: Around FNB Stadium, which will host the cup's opening ceremony and final match, Fifa requires 35000m² of space for use by sponsors to entertain clients. A further 50000m² is required for restaurants and entertainment for spectators, serv ed by a 1400-bay parking lot and space for 520 buses.
At Ellis Park, two 10000m² areas must be available for sponsors and spectators, serv ed by 650 car parking bays and 285 for buses.
Sunday Times

Pule

May 30th, 2007, 05:22 AM

Taxi drivers decide to create havoc by Bree Taxi Rank and the police faced them head on. this happened on monday. The pictures incude the medical emergency personell.

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joburg

May 30th, 2007, 07:31 AM

Sigh... the gov REALLY needs to get tough on this. How can we allow this to happen three years before the World Cup? it's the fuggin wild west! I fear that this is what would happen if that monorail would go ahead. I wouldn't put it past these fuckers at all to shoot at commuters from the road and throw grenades at them.

SA BOY

May 30th, 2007, 08:40 AM

what happened?

Jakes1

May 30th, 2007, 09:02 AM

what happened?

Apparently the taxi assosiations are at war with each other once again. There was a shooting a while back as well - in Bree street at the taxi rank...

Jakes1

May 30th, 2007, 09:04 AM

R300m Office Park Build Commences - 2007/05/29

Email Article Print Article SMS News Alerts
Construction is about to get under way on the new R300m Greenstone Hill Office Park development in Modderfontein.

The joint venture includes Barrow Properties, Vunani Properties and Sherratt Property Ventures. It comprises 25 000 sq m of campus style offices within Heartland Properties' Greenstone Hill (mixed-use precinct). The area will accommodate various retail, commercial, residential and industrial segments.

The office development is alongside the recently opened 70 000 sq m Greenstone Mall, the 50 000 sq m Stoneridge Lifestyle Centre opening in September 2008 and related commercial precincts, thus providing the full spectrum of amenities in the new node.

Barrow said most of the buildings will offer units for sale or lease from 800 sq m upwards, with one being divided into smaller individual sections from 120 to 280 sq m in size.

Selling prices will be approximately R11 500 sq m (including parking) and leasing will be at R85 sq m (gross). All will be delivered as base build units with a high degree of customisation possible for clients.

Grant Lotter of Moren Williams architects says the buildings are of contemporary design within a parkland setting, complete with water features, walking paths and luxuriant landscaping.

The buildings will comprise of two storeys plus basement with five parking bays per 100 sq m, and featuring 'A' grade finishes in a high security environment.

Graham Sherrat of Sherrat Property Ventures comments that the launch coincides with demand exceeding supply in the commercial property sector, reinforced by a new report on the positive performance of the South African commercial property market.

The research group's global index for property returns shows that South Africa out-performed all global markets analysed, with returns of 30,1% pa over a five year period to 2006. Ireland came second with 24,3%, followed by the USA with 20,2%.

Pieter Mackenzie of Vunani Properties adds:"There is every indication that the strength of the local commercial property market, as reflected in the report, will continue.

"The Heartland precinct is strategically positioned relative to Sandton, Bedfordview, Isando, Midrand and other key areas, including the main Gautrain route to OR Tambo International."

For more information contact 011 483 0727 or send an email. Click here to visit the website.

Jakes1

May 30th, 2007, 11:17 AM

Theatre time in Jozi!

Theatre aims to
keep the cold at bay
Keeping warm is the talk of the town, with the icy wind biting into Joburgers' bones. And the theatre world offers a welcome alternative to hot chocolate and blankets at home.

May 30, 2007
By Tabisa Mntengwana

IT'S winter again - time to hang up those braai tongs and rather warm up the evenings with the hot entertainment on offer at Joburg's theatres.

The sizzling line-up is packed with comedy, music, dance and classic stories.

For starters there's an Opera Extravaganza at the Civic Theatre; take a nostalgic journey with Grease; or sing along with the cast of Tonight's the Night. Laugh out loud with Marc Lottering in Hallelujah; spend some time with Simba in The Lion King or learn the music of slavery with Ghoema.

For the young and the young at heart, the National Children's Theatre is putting on A Pocket Oliver Twist and the People's Theatre presents Babe, the Sheep-Pig.

Johannesburg Civic Theatre
The Civic Theatre in Braamfontein is one of the city's leading theatre venues. It has three theatres - the Nelson Mandela, the Tesson and the People's Theatre.
Address: Loveday Street, Braamfontein
Tel: 011 877 6800
Website: www.showbusiness.co.za

Nelson Mandela Theatre
The Ten Tenors, from Australia, perform a heart-warming recital for opera fans, pop lovers and rock enthusiasts alike.

The show starts on Wednesday, 6 June and runs until Sunday, 17 June.

It is followed by Opera Extravaganza, with operatic masterpieces conceived and staged by Laurence Dale and lit by Declan Randall, with images by the celebrated artist Andrew Vester. The show is performed by tenors Johan Botha, Stefan Louw and Musa Nkuna together with lyric soprano Kelebogile Boikanyo and baritone Ntsikelelo Mali.

The soloists are accompanied by the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Leslie Dunner, with the massed voices of the Gauteng Choristers.

Opera Extravaganza runs from 28 June to 1 July.

The Australian opera group Ten Tenors perform live at the Johannesburg Civic Theatre

Tesson Theatre
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum is a classic comedy of errors with cases of mistaken identity, the wrong people in the wrong place at the wrong time, delicious puns and spot-on satirical comments on social class.

The play is based on the book by Burt Shevelove and Larry Gelbart. The lead is played by actor and comedian Bill Flynn and the show is on from 5 July until 21 October.

People's Theatre
Babe, the Sheep-Pig runs from 4 June until 11 August. A children's show, it is based on the book by Dick King Smith, which also inspired the film Babe.

It tells the adventures the courageous tale of a piglet, born into humble circumstances in a farmyard. Babe rises to become the world famous sheep-pig.

The show is staged and directed by Keith Smith and Gill Girard, with costumes by Vanessa Sham and set by Marius Boshoff.

The Market Theatre
The iconic theatre was opened in 1976 in the city's original fruit and vegetable market. Three theatres have been established at the venue in the intervening years: the Barney Simon, the Main and the Laager.
Address: Cnr Bree and Wolhuter streets, Newtown
Tel: 011 832 1641
Website: www.markettheatre.co.za

The Laager Theatre
Victory, a play written by world-renowned playwright Athol Fugard, runs until 1 July.

It examines the realities of a world robbed of hope, existing at the mercy of senseless violence and drug abuse. Three characters investigate the unfulfilled promises made by the wealthy and white and the subsequent desperation and disappointment experienced by South Africa's youth.

The Barney Simon Theatre
Molora is an adaptation by Yael Farber of the Oresteia Trilogy by Aeschylus, set in contemporary South Africa. The play is a confrontation between victim and perpetrator during the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

It is on until 3 June and is directed and adapted by Farber; the assistant director is Damon Krometis.

Main Theatre
Ghoema runs from 13 June until 22 July. It is the most recent - and the last - creation by two icons in the South African music industry, David Kramer and Taliep Petersen, who was murdered last year.

The story explores the roots of slave music, going as far back as the Dutch East Indian Company. The slaves the company brought to the Cape from countries like Indonesia, India, Madagascar, East Africa and Java had an enormous effect on the settlement, influencing a cross-pollination of lifestyles, music, language and culture between themselves, the indigenous people, the Dutch and other European settlers.

Pieter Toerien's Montecasino Theatre
Montecasino's Main Theatre opened in December 2000, with seating for more than 300 people. The more intimate Studio Theatre opened in July 2003, with seating for 150 people. The latest venue to open is the vast Teatro, built to accommodate the South African production of the world hit, The Lion King.
Address: Montecasino Boulevard, Cnr William Nicol Drive and Witkoppen Road, Fourways
Tel: 011 511 1988/1818
Website: www.montecasinotheatre.co.za

Main Theatre
Menopause -The Musical is a 90-minute show that celebrates women who are going through "the change", with tunes from the 1960s and 1970s.

Set in Bloomingdale's department store, where four women with seemingly nothing in common but a black lace bra, meet by chance. The musical explores issues such as hot flushes, memory loss, mood swings, wrinkles, night sweats and eating binges, among others.

The show is on until 24 June.

It is followed by Liberocco - A Liberace Tribute, running from 27 July to 2 September.

Directed by Tobie Cronje, the show features pianist Rocco de Villiers paying tribute to the king of bling, Liberace. The music includes Warsaw Concerto, Rhapsody in Blue, Jealousy Tango, Moonlight Sonata and Chopsticks, among others.

Studio Theatre
It's back - Defending the Caveman returns with Alan Committie. The hilarious show looks at how men and women relate to each other in the modern world, juxtaposing this with our cave-dwelling ancestors.

The show is on until 16 June.

Teatro
The internationally acclaimed The Lion King is finally in South Africa, where it will stay until 9 September.

South Africa is the tenth country to host the show. It tells the adventures of a lion cub, Simba, who is driven into exile after the death of his father, the king. He returns after struggling with the responsibilities of manhood and his future role, to overthrow his wicked uncle and reclaim the kingdom.

Most of the music is by Grammy Award-winning South Africa composer and producer Lebo M. The show features actors such Sello Maake Ka-Ncube, who plays Mufasa, Buyisile Zama, Mark Rayment, Andile Gumbi and others.

Barnyard Theatres
The Barnyard Theatre concept was the brainchild of husband-and-wife team Louis Moller and Sybel Coetzee, with the original theatre established in a converted barn on their dairy farm. There are now five Barnyard Theatres around the country.

Broadacres
Address: Broadacres Shopping Centre, Cnr Cedar Avenue and Valley Road, Fourways
Tel: 011 467 6983
Website: www.barnyardtheatres.co.za

A tribute to the greatest male vocalists, Tonight's the Night features songs by Frank Sinatra, Tommy Jones, Robbie Williams, Cliff Richard, Rod Stewart, Rob Orbison, Chris de Burgh, Elton John, Stevie Wonder and Paul McCartney.

The tribute show is on until 22 July.

Cresta
Address: Cresta Shopping Centre, Beyers Naude Drive, Randburg
Tel: 011 280 4370
Website: www.barnyardtheatres.co.za

Taking the audience back to the heady teenage lifestyles of the 1950s, Grease brings with it a heady nostalgia for boys with ducktail haircuts, motorcycle jackets and pegged pants. Their girls had beehive hairdos and wore pedal pushers and white bobby socks.

The show starts on 5 June, running until 12 August.

Liberty Life Theatre on the Square
The Liberty Life Theatre on the Square has been open for over seven years and is a recipient of more than 25 Naledi nominations and several awards for theatre excellence.
Address: 121 Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton City
Tel: 011 883 8606
Website: www.artslink.co.za/tots

The multi-talented - and hilarious - Marc Lottering returns with Hallelujah. In it he shares his zany perspective on the modern-day church. Many familiar characters put in an appearance, with Auntie Merle sharing her views on undertakers and Smiley, the taxi dude, explaining how it came to pass that he went from church to jail.

The show is directed by David Kramer and is on until 2 June.

Following that is a performance by Jolette Odendaal, featuring original contemporary music in English and Afrikaans, with well-known guitarist Mauritz Lotz.

Odendaal performs on Sunday, 10 June.

Globe Theatre
Johannesburg's Globe Theatre opened in the early 1890s; it was later renamed the Empire Palace of Varieties. It hosted the first moving picture shows. This replica opened with the world premiere of Richard Loring's African Footprint in 2000.
Address: Gold Reef City Casino, Northern Parkway, Ormonde
Tel: 011 248 5168
Website: www.goldreefcity.co.za

The theatre world is brought to life in Hairspray, with comedy, music and rhythm. Well-known local personalities, musicians and actors appear, including Mara Louw, Harry Sideropolous, Mike Huff and Kate Normington. There is also a 12-piece orchestra led by Charl Johan Lingenfelder.

Stage personality and actress Mara Louw performs in Hairspray

It is on from 9 October until 5 January 2008.

The Sound Stage Theatre
This vibey dinner-theatre was founded in 1989 by Richard Loring and seats about 300 people.
Address: 239 Old Pretoria Road, Constantia Park, Midrand
Tel: 011 315 5084
Website: www.soundstage.co.za

An all-singing, all-dancing, all-acting cast of 10 women bring Girl Talk 007 to the stage. It caters for the young and old with songs from international stars such as Christina Aguilera, KT Tunstall, Kelly Clarkson, Faith Hill, the Dixie Chicks, Madonna, Shania Twain and local musicians such as Brenda Fassie, TK and Lebo Mathosa.

It is on until 31 December.

National Children's Theatre
Originally called the Johannesburg Youth Theatre, the company was established in 1990 with Joyce Levinsohn as director. Four times a year it presents plays based on well-known classics.
Address: 3 Junction Avenue, Parktown
Tel: 011 484 1584
Website: www.jyt.co.za

The latest offering from the National Children's Theatre is A Pocket Oliver Twist, running from 11 June until 4 August.

This well-loved classic has been adapted from the original work of Charles Dickens. The story is one of the triumph of innocence over evil, where Oliver going through the dark underworld to the bright warmth of a loving home.

It is directed by Joyce Levinsohn.