Pretoria’s green credentials are getting a boost thanks to Menlyn Maine, a R32bn, 32 hectare mixed use development which is green to the core.
Unlike many other mixed-use developments which generally only incorporate a limited range of eco-friendly initiatives, Menlyn Maine is taking sustainability and earth friendly initiatives to a whole new level, making it Africa’s first ‘Green City’.
In line with developments of this nature, Menlyn Maine offers a mix of apartments, a dedicated retail and dining space, medical facilities, a gym, a day spa, hotels, an entertainment complex and parklands – all of which are on track to be certified green.
All buildings within Menlyn Maine are set to achieve a Four Star Green Star rating through the Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA). The developers also hope to achieve a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Neighbourhood Design rating through the United States Green Building Council (USGBC).
As if that wasn’t enough, Menlyn Maine is one of only 16 cities which is participating in the Clinton Foundation’s Clinton Climate Positive Development Programme which works together with governments and businesses across the globe to improve urban energy efficiency.
Menlyn Maine’s green goals are greatly facilitated by the fact that it is managed by the Menlyn Maine Property Owners Association. All maintenance, traffic control, refuse management, recycling and security requirements fall under the auspices of the association.
There’s much more to Menlyn Maine than just its green credentials though. The city has been designed according to the latest urbanism principles which place great emphasis on pedestrianised, integrated, liveable spaces.
The residential component is a case in point. The node comprises approximately 350 apartments spread over two high rise apartment blocks and three smaller buildings. The apartments will be surrounded by offices, shops, a gym, the ‘Urban Entertainment Centre’ and will overlook a central park.
All residents will also be able to access Pretoria’s public transport system which takes the form of the new BRT system, the Gautrain bus system and a new taxi station. Provision has also been made for deaf and blind people living within the city’s boundaries.
Speaking of transport services, a new bridge link is reportedly due to be built which will feed directly off Atterbury Road. This will provide direct access to Menlyn Maine from the north which, with the completion of various other road changes, should alleviate potential traffic issues.
Work on the development is well underway and numerous major companies have already taken up residence or are planning on doing so within the near future. Unsurprisingly, many business investors and residents alike have cited Menlyn Maine’s strong green focus for doing so.
As energy costs, increasing traffic congestion and other resources becoming increasingly scarce, a spot within Menlyn Maine will, in all probability, become highly coveted in the not too distant future. The new development will also do much to uplift and add diversity to the surrounding area which has traditionally
