Improvement district leads the way in winning Wynberg

AS WITH a number of other Cape Town suburbs, Wynberg has introduced an improvement district to supplement municipal services and combat crime and grime.

“The revival of Wynberg began in 2000 with the introduction of Wynberg Improvement District (WID),a special rating area which manages the growing commercial and residential area of Wynberg. The leadership of an active board and strong management has ensured a successful and focused approach to the growth of Wynberg,” says WID manager Athol Swanson

“Since its formation the area under the control of WID has been extended twice. The 2006 extension incorporated the Wynberg Old Village – a heritage conservation area – and recently, in February the district was extended further along the southern business area of the Main Road.

“Crucial to the board and management of WID has been the safety and security of shoppers, residents and business. The extent of the successes of the WID policies can be seen in the new and re-development of business property as well as the growth of investment in the area,” says Swanson.

“For example, the upgrade of the Maynard Mall shopping centre by the Redefine Group has been completed. The chairman of HomeChoice, Rick Garratt, showed belief in Wynberg when he bought the Southern Cross Hospital and converted it into A Grade Offices, adding a sixth executive floor. He made this the firm’s corporate head quarters bringing 700 active business people to Wynberg which has stimulated retail growth.”

Speaking at a recent WID monthly breakfast, Garratt said he was so confident in the suburb’s future that he has invested millions in the area and is expanding into a second property which the company recently purchased.

“I am taking a long-term view of the future and we are happy with our investment. The staff wanted to be near shopping and transport and the parking is good. HomeChoice recently completed a large extension to the head office building as well as a showroom in Main Road.”

The Leisure Group has invested R230 million in Wynberg to develop residential units. Pick n Pay built a new store which opened in Main Road in 2011. McDonalds restored a rundown and neglected national monument and converted it into one of its new look stores in Main Road.

My Domain has transformed a previously neglected building to provide student

‘Good schools,

accommodation near public transport, with 24 hour concierge and security, a free shuttle service, free wifi, an onsite gym and a laundry, secure underground parking, communal social space. Students already in residence include the Western Province Rugby Academy pupils, says Swanson.

“Good schools, affordable housing and easy access are drawing families to Wynberg. The Maynardville Park is one of the finest in Cape Town. Home to an historic open air theatre which hosts Shakespearian plays and musical concerts; a well-equipped and safe playground for children; community activities and a place where people can picnic,” says Swanson.