THE 47ha Bridge City mixed-use, town-centre development is starting to take shape in northwest Durban, just off the KwaMashu Highway and adjacent to Phoenix Industrial Park.

Bridge City Mall has secured tenants that include major national retailers and brands such as Shoprite, Spar, Woolworths, Mr Price, Edgars, OK Furniture, KFC and Spur, as well as major banks. An additional 13000m² second phase of retail development is also planned.

Another development is planned by Kagiso Urban Management, the site is planned for completion at the end of 2011.

A major fund has expressed interest in purchasing the residential precinct of the development, which will have 300 one- or two-bedroomed units to meet rental demand, while 5000m² of commercial space is under negotiation for a major tertiary education institution.

Pam Golding Properties’ commercial agent in Durban, Taryn Muller, says: “With high visibility from the KwaMashu Highway (M25) and easy access to major routes including the N2, this prime corner site provides an excellent location and maximum exposure as it is situated right on Bridge City’s main activity spine leading to the regional hospital, shopping mall and magistrate’s court.”

On this just-launched site more than 4300m² of retail space and more than 15000m² of commercial space is available in flexible configurations ranging in size from 100m² upwards, with ample parking and easy access.

GAPP Architects & Urban Designers have focused on an aesthetic, contemporary design with the development separated into three main vertical precincts focusing on retail, commercial and hospitality functions and a private residential precinct.

Bridge City is a joint venture between eThekwini Municipality and Tongaat Hulett Developments and is designed to service a rapidly growing population that includes the nearby areas of Phoenix, Inanda, Ntuzuma and KwaMashu.

It is expected to serve as a link that will integrate and provide economic empowerment to all the local communities and create a new town centre that will be a major asset to the city of Durban.

Coupled with huge infrastructural investment by the city of Durban, Bridge City is one of several major renewal projects being undertaken in the area.

Source: Business Day