Overview | Profile

THE area between the CBD of Johannesburg and Soweto, once the heart of the original gold rush, is now the site of a different kind of excitement: an economic, social and environmental rejuvenation project by the City of Johannesburg which aims to attract new investment to the area.

The City of Johannesburg has identified Nasrec as an area requiring economic, social and environmental rejuvenation and upliftment.

In October 2003, the Nasrec Landowners Forum was established, which comprises representation from:

• private and public landowners within the Nasrec focus area;
• the City's Economic Development Unit;
• the Department of Development Planning Transportation and Environment; and
• the Johannesburg Development Agency.

The support of the public and private sector is being garnered through a unique experience that ensures financial viability, sustainable, integrated development and social investment.

Though the Development Framework, the City will direct development and land release within the focus area to ensure that an international events centre capable of supporting longterm sustainable economic growth is achieved, which includes making provision for large events such as the 2010 Soccer World Cup and associated Fifa requirements.

In addition to the current infrastructure, significant new investment is planned for additional infrastructure, such as roads, railways, lighting and electricity. Improvements to the environment - such as increased safety measures, improved lighting, branding, the creation of public spaces - will create a first-choice international event space over the next four years.

The area will become an environment that supports the sport, recreation and exposition functions of Nasrec. Long-term economic growth will be sustainable, with events such as the 2010 Soccer World Cup, the Rand Easter Show and Auto Africa easily accommodated.