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Features of Newtown
- An architecturally unique bridge, Nelson Mandela Bridge, plus related interchange.
- A massive transport interchange and trading complex catering to public transport users.
- Housing developments for mixed-income tenants.
- Public sector funding from Blue IQ, City of Johannesburg,
National Roads Agency and National Department of Transport in excess of
R400-million.
CLEAN AND SAFE
The establishment of a City Improvement District, installation of CCTV,
upgrading of existing buildings and public open spaces have turned
Newtown into a safe, secure and attractive environment. Mary Fitzgerald
Square constantly hosts public performances and gatherings. With
lighting designed by renowned French Lighting designer, Patrick Rimoux
and made possible by funding from the French Institute, Newtown has
been transformed into a well-lit attractive destination.
CLUSTERING OF CREATIVE INDUSTRIES
Newtown is strategically positioned in the Johannesburg metropolitan
context, within reach of a broad spectrum of city users and close to
the SABC, the national broadcaster. There are opportunities for
investment in the creative industries, specifically film television,
music, as well as for recording and production, crafts and design,
multi-media and information technology.
CREATING A CRITICAL MASS
Over
2 200 new housing units, providing a range of accommodation, are
planned in the form of Transport House, Metro Mall, Brickfields and
Tribunal Gardens. COPE and the Johannesburg Housing Company have
already developed the Carr Gardens and Newtown Urban Village offering
mixed-income housing and are currently fully let. Land, and
under-utilised buildings, largely owned by the public sector, offer
excellent opportunities for new developments. Infrastructure capacity
to support new development exists. A fast-track planning approval
system offering appropriate and substantial development rights has been
established by the local authority to support property development in
the area.
INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES
- Opportunities to rehabilitate, re-use and revamp redundant buildings.
- Investment opportunities in cultural tourism and creative industries.
- Economic opportunities for informal enterprises.
- Support services to creative industries.
- Hotels, restaurants and retail opportunities.
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