The newly announced The Fields development is a significant urban renewal project with the first phase having a total estimated project value of R280 million. The project will bring a major capital contribution to the revitalisation of the Hatfield metropolitan node within the City of Tshwane's Metropolitan Spatial Development Framework plan. As such the development will leverage new growth to improve existing areas of opportunity in Hatfield. This mixed-use development will address the needs of the area in terms of housing as well as retail, complimenting each other as an increasingly popular urban lifestyle attraction.
The Fields is part of the Premium Properties Limited portfolio. Premium Properties is a listed property loan stock company and their total portfolio comprises 139 properties, being commercial, retail, industrial and residential buildings. The Hatfield development includes a consolidation of seven core properties, which are situated in the street block bounded by Hilda Street to the east, Burnett Street to the south, Festival Street to the west and the railway line to the north. The first phase of the development will provide 693 residential units, 4 000m2 retail space and 839 parking bays, all within easy walking distance to the University of Pretoria. While the development will provide upmarket student accommodation, more permanent residents will combat the seasonal nature of students and encourage a 24 hour functioning urban precinct. Residents will enter a safe environment where they can access the secure foyer to their apartments via lifts from a two-level super basement parking area.
The project has commenced with demolition recently completed and excavation underway. The buildings are expected to come on stream on a phased basis between August 2007 and March 2008.
The Fields' design philosophy is based on a convergence of pedestrian routes that lead to and from main existing destinations such as the University of Pretoria and the Hatfield central business district. The project should benefit from its close proximity to the proposed Gautrain station and serviced via planned pedestrian links with the Gautrain station. Safety and convenience to pedestrians are given a high priority. The urban design will make use of lighting, street furniture, planting and water features to enhance the urban areas.
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