Absa is currently considering a number of proposals which could see the massive redevelopment of its properties and the surrounding areas in Johannesburg CBD.

The proposed redevelopment will see ten “priority interventions” made – including a complete revitalisation of Absa towers, a new Carlton centre link, a new shopping mall, and open-air markets similar to those seen in Europe.

“Absa is continually exploring ways to improve the workplace experience for our colleagues across all our sites and to positively impact the environment and communities that we operate in,” a spokesperson said to BusinessTech.

“The CBD campus presentation refers only to proposals received from developers, and does not reflect approved plans.

“The CBD proposal would still require input from and collaboration with multiple stakeholders in the CBD, including the Mayor and other public and private sectors partners, as part of the Johannesburg Inner City Rejuvenation project.

“More information will be made available once final decisions on the proposal have been made.”

Nine city blocks

The proposed redevelopment is truly “massive” and will encompass a number of city blocks in Central Johannesburg. The centerpiece will be the redevelopment of the ABSA tower into a mixed-use building.

At present Absa provides a high standard of security, cleaning and maintenance in the nine City Blocks owned by Absa (the Absa Precinct). ABSA also contributes to the wider city improvement district (the Main Marshall Improvement district).

In terms of this strategy management will continue at two levels for the foreseeable future, the long-term vision is for single integrated management:

• Precinct Level (enhanced security, cleaning and management)

• District Level (City Improvement district)

Absa tower

The ABSA tower will be redevelopment into a mixed-use development which showcases the ideals of the East Village. This includes a vertical mixture of uses, including residential, office and retail spaces.

The delivery of facilities is a key part of realising the vision of an urban village. These would include a fire station, police station, library, community hall, post offices, two schools, and a local park.

It is proposed that the building will house 5,000 residents.

Fox street and Carlton centre

It has been proposed that Fox street become a “mini-village” to form a formidable link with the successful Maboneng Precinct in the West of Johannesburg.

The route is envisaged as a fully pedestrianised route, but this will be subject to comprehensive traffic impact Assessments, services surveys and community participation.

Ghandi Square precinct together with the pedestrianised Fox street will also be at the heart of the revitalisation of the areas west of the Carlton Centre. This will mean a clear pedestrian linkage will be created through the Carlton Centre (in front of the old Hotel) to the new development in the West.

Headline image from The Heritage Portal

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