With industrial space of any sort at a premium, Springfield Park is coming up with some surprises.

Of note is the newly renovated Upton Park that has seen the old Mondi papermill transformed into a brand new industrial facility. Newly created Upton Park is anchored by Enforce in the upgraded ex-Mondi office block, which has been sectionalized and sold off. The balance of the mill has been converted into industrial space from 50 square metres up to 5000 square metres, and is reportedly fully let.

Alan Dryburgh, JHI Real Estate broker manager, says the renovation has contributed to new life in the old, established industrial park. An example, is the sale by Dryburgh of the Springfield Park Shopping centre for R4-million to a private syndicate.

"We are definitely seeing a revival of interest in the node, which was in danger of degenerating due to building obsolescence and competition from other newer industrial park offering," he adds.

"But given the dramatic shortage of industrial space, and the recent renovations and movements in the Park, it looks like the area is still a viable option for end-users, tenants and investors".