The latter includes an expansion programme by the local Nestle factory, scheduled to commence in 2008, a new shopping centre for Pick 'n Pay and new outlets for Scooters Pizza, Wimpy and Nandos.
In addition, a large shopping centre is planned for a location on the nearby Giants Castle Road.
The Bushmans River Tourism Association is also developing aTourism Route through the area, in conjunction with Open Africa and the Umthezi Municipality. This will boost tourism, create employment opportunities and impact positively on growth in the local economy."There is a growing trend towards home buyers seeking properties in Estcourt with a view to commuting to work daily in the Pietermaritzburg and Howick areas," says Alan Jennings, area principal for Pam Golding Properties (PGP).
"Increasingly, they are turning their attention to Estcourt as a location for permanent residence, attracted by the value for money of lower priced homes here, where a top end house sells for approximately R900k. As there's still a shortage of rental accommodation, this has sparked a few new residential developments which are in the planning stages."
In addition, at the new Lifestyle Retirement Village, units priced between R1,5m and R2m are being marketed.
"The road between Estcourt and these surrounding areas is in very good condition and Pietermaritzburg is a comfortable 50-minute drive. Estcourt is also very well positioned, with Treverton Private School only 25km away and a bus transporting pupils daily," says Jennings.He says the commercial property market in Estcourt is very buoyant, particularly in the centre of town and such premises - when they do become available - fetch good prices.
A 1,400sq m industrial property for R1,25m was recently sold, which will accommodate a new factory for the Johannesburg based Cereal & Malt. It is anticipated that the factory will employ some 15 people and that it will be operational during the second quarter of 2008.
The new cultural village for Estcourt, situated in a gorge adjacent to a flowing river, is expected to arouse considerable interest, particularly for traditional weddings. The village will accommodate guests in traditional beehive huts, however these will all be en suite with underfloor heating. There will also be a privately situated honeymoon suite with an outdoor bush shower.
Image: An artist's impression of a home in the Lifestyle Retirement Village.
Image: This three-bedroom, two-bathroom home with open plan lounge/kitchen/dining room and fully fitted kitchen with separate one-bedroom flatlet and three garages, swimming pool and entertainment area is marketed at R950k.
For more information contact Alan Jennings on 036 352 3456 or send an email.
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