Riverfields is a front-running mixed-use development in the heart of an expanding aerotropolis in Ekurhuleni. The goal of mixed-use development is to create a seamless integration of different land uses that creates a vibrant and connected community. Land is typically set aside for commercial, residential, leisure and other types of development with the goal being to connect all people in a sustainable, walkable environment that is safe, secure and convenient. The precinct takes on the qualities of a sustainable city with different nodes of activity, supported by a collective management association, business sector and residential opportunities.
As an expansive mixed-use project, Riverfields is set across 1 500 hectares for development. We’ve taken the opportunity to design Riverfields with the purpose of providing a connected hub of logistics and distributions centres, planned big box retail, established residential estates, leisure, social upliftment and housing opportunities with the goal of forging a thriving community. There’s plenty of innovation and economic activity at Riverfields. The more people we welcome, the more opportunity presents itself to grow Riverfields as a dynamic and ever-thriving precinct.
The 15-minute city concept
In Riverfields, we’re thinking ahead to create a safe, sustainable urban lifestyle of convenience. In development terms, this is essentially the 15-minute city concept where everything you need is within 15-minutes of each other.
The origin of the “15-minute city” concept can be traced back to the work of French urbanist and sociologist Henri Lefebvre in the 1960s and 1970s. Lefebvre was a pioneer in the field of critical urban theory, and his ideas about the right to the city and the importance of everyday life in shaping urban spaces had a profound influence on the development of the “15-minute city” concept. The concept has been embraced by urban planners around the world as a way to create more equitable, sustainable, and liveable cities.
This type of development is a catalyst for urban revitalisation. Sandton City is a good case in point: It is considered one of the largest and most prestigious mixed-use developments in South Africa attracting both local and international visitors. Featuring a variety of retail experiences, Sandton City is integrated with commercial, residential and hotel. Since its launch, it continues to be a landmark in the city and a key aspect of generating economic activity within Sandton. In the same way, the idea of a mixed-use development is to provide a range of services and amenities in one convenient location serving as a hub of activity and productivity, becoming a focal point for community life.
The feeling of being part of a dynamic environment pulls people towards the mixed-use development and creates a supportive network for innovation to flourish. Riverfields is already a magnet for logistics and distributions centres with its prime central route on the Albertina Sisulu R21 freeway and short 19-minute drive to O.R. Tambo. We have a growing population with continued interest shown in our established residential opportunities, planned leisure projects and social initiatives in the precinct.
Riverfields’ mixed-use nodes in operation
At the centre of Riverfields is the Harvest Place shopping mall, the cornerstone of community life, home to approximately 70 retailers.
We’re building infrastructure, including roads, plumbing and electrical and ensuring the precinct is sustainable and walkable. We’re also planning to rehabilitate the wetland and incorporate it into the communal parks and landscaped areas.
The logistics and distribution centre has attracted almost full occupancy with a long list of brands choosing to be part of the precinct. Tenants include:
• Shoprite
• DSV
• Foschini
• Sandvik
• Bosch
• Teraco
• Takealot
• DHL
• DB Schenker
Our Gleneagle Office Park offers businesses turnkey solutions. These office spaces are modern and secure within minutes of the expanding aerotropolis and the logistics and distribution centres. Convenience within this 15-minute commercial hub has set the scene for South African business to thrive.
In addition, the residential opportunities in close proximity help to support the growing area and create opportunities to develop more leisure for everyone in the precinct.
In addition, the residential opportunities in close proximity help to support the growing area and create opportunities to develop more leisure for everyone in the precinct.
Community
The central point of Riverfields, where we see community life at its best is Harvest Place. Within walking distance of Harvest Place is a planned Lifestyle Centre, a community park, school and church. This area is our main community hub along Monument Road and you will find easy access points to our residential estates including Gleneagle Estate and Swallow Hills Estate. Further into the precinct, bordering the Wetland is Glen Erasmia Boulevard. These estates have been developed with safety and security as top of mind features. There is also new urban development and housing initiatives as part of the holistic Riverfields’ plan.
Educational institutions have always been high on our list and by 2026, Riverfields will be home to Maranatha Christian School, a private school for learners up to Grade 12. The school will also be in close proximity to our 6500 seater church that is currently being built.
The future of Riverfields
Riverfields’ precinct is a hive of activity. The mixed-use nature of the development brings dynamic businesses and residential opportunities together to create a thriving life for all. As we work towards creating opportunities that will grow local business, we’re excited for Riverfields’ bright future – not only for business but for families moving to our dynamic mixed-use precinct.