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Several years after initial commitments, Johannesburg has finally initiated a 4,000-hectare, R27-billion biodiversity project in the city’s southern region, aimed at tackling some of Joburg’s problems – notably the housing crisis resulting from swift urban growth.
The multi-billion rand Southern Farms Biodiversity Development Project was officially launched by city executives in Devland in December 2023, and promises to provide:
- 45,000 housing units;
- Seven local neighbourhood parks with play facilities;
- Six multi-purpose sports courts;
- A local library;
- Two home affairs offices.
Benefiting areas like Diepkloof, Freedom Park, Eldorado Park and Naturena, the mixed-use land project that is expected to be completed in 2026 will encompass seven precincts – offering various types of housing and non-residential properties.
In addition, the city said the project will positively impact “economic opportunities, job creation, SMME, and training opportunities.”
The Gauteng provincial government initially announced the megaproject back in 2018, saying that development would begin in 2019/2020. However, progress remained stagnant for several years – to the dismay of nearby residents.
According to consultancy firm NEWURBAN, the project site consists of expansive developable areas, preserved wetlands and streams, existing farmland, and a challenging terrain.
“A land use cycle has been devised with input from all professionals, which aims at including undeveloped land in phases to support developing land. These will include agriculture, solar farms and natural area protection,” said NEWURBAN.
MMC for finance in Johannesburg, Dada Morero, said that the city’s “commitment is to ensure that the Southern Farms community not only gains from the housing component but also benefits from the business aspect of this project.”
The project is being developed by construction company Sephahaphaha Trading and Projects, with its owner Sedima Moseamedi hoping that the project will boost local businesses in the area. The project will be overseen by the city’s department of economic development, headed by MMC Nomoya Mnisi.
Read: Thousands of government housing projects blocked or stalled – with some left waiting for 25 years
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