Article

Randburg requires a new solution

In 2000 the Randburg CBD was classified as a Regional Node within Joburg, but the environmental quality of the node continued to decline in spite of various plans and initiatives that were undertaken there.

In 2004 the City appointed consultants to develop an Urban Design Framework (UDF) for the area and a business plan based on the framework was readied for implementation. The main issues included land uses, road closures, taxi ranks, public upgrades and the establishment of a City Improved District. Few changes in the quality of the space are however visible and objections lodged by interest groups to certain proposals in the UDF have not helped.

Presently the Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) and Directorate of of Development Planning and Facilitation (DPF) have initiated a project whereby a revised UDF is being formulated to address planning, urban design and management issues in the area.

The project is based on five key principles:

- Integrate the node within the network of transport routes and facilities
- Apropriately intensify land uses
- Provide for a mix of land uses
- Improve the quality of public environment and experience of the node
- Establish a safe and walkable environment

The core of the UDF will relate to a high intensity mixed-use development which caters for a range of housing options across the income spectrum, specifically for the ‘gap’ market in the area, supported by a strengthening of existing social amenities.

Various stakeholders affected by the plans are being consulted and public participation sessions have been held to obtain input on the project. The project will be included in the Regional Spatial Development Framework for Region B.

Forward your enquiries to Inneke de Villiers at inneked@joburg.org.za or 011 407 7171; or Sharon Lewis at slewis@jda.org.za or 011 688 7851.