R3.5 billion Beachwood Coastal Estate in Durban North taking shape

Mercury Reporter|Published

An artist's impression of the Beachwood Coastal Estate.

Image: Supplied

A new R3.5 billion low-density residential development, Beachwood Coastal Estate, on a prime 430 333 sqm site along Durban North’s pristine coastline, is set to enhance the area through ecological rehabilitation and local economic upliftment.

The project, which will be officially launched today, October 24, will create approximately 1 500 direct jobs during construction and the subsequent estate operations.

Civil construction commenced in February this year. In addition, the developers, Beachwood Investments, is investing in upgrades to surrounding infrastructure, including widened roads and upgrading the Durban North potable water reservoir. Public beach access will be retained with new ablution and new public parking facilities.

The estate has been conceived as a green, low-impact estate, with over 50% of the site dedicated to open space. 

Aerial view: An artist's impression of the Beachwood Coast Estate in Durban North.

Image: Supplied

The developers said in a statement that there are also environmental restoration initiatives which include the rehabilitation of dune forests that protect the sand dunes, the planting of indigenous woody tree species to protect the milkwood from the harsh sea environment, mangrove protection by filtering the stormwater discharged off the M4 freeway to eliminate tyre, oil and fuel deposits, and the preservation of habitats for 17 bird species.

Investment is also being made in a new stormwater management system to overcome the flooding of the southern precinct of the property especially during torrential rains. The estate will also have its own 1-million-litre filtered water reservoir. 

Dr Andrew Golding, chief executive of the Pam Golding Property group, marketers of the freehold stands and sectional title residences at Beachwood Coastal Estate, said: “Upmarket Durban North remains one of KwaZulu-Natal’s most sought-after residential suburbs, offering a leafy and appealing, centrally located environment just 20 minutes from King Shaka International Airport.

An apartment building in the estate.

Image: Supplied

“With a limited supply of large-scale, secure lifestyle estates, there is currently no comparable development in the area that combines direct beach access with a golf course. The location appeals strongly to affluent families, professionals, retirees, and lifestyle-focused buyers seeking secure, modern coastal living close to the amenities of Durban, uMhlanga and La Lucia.

“Secure coastal estates have historically shown strong resale values, robust rental demand, and sustained capital growth. With an emphasis on quality and architectural design sensitive to its environment, Beachwood Coastal Estate is also expected to enhance surrounding property values, increase security in the neighbourhood and contribute to the long-term desirability of the area.”

Phase 1 of the development will comprise 52 freestanding plots and 37 drive-up three- and four-bedroom apartments, duplex villas, and forest duplexes. Future phases will expand the estate, while maintaining a limited number of units to ensure exclusivity and environmental integrity.

Carol Reynolds, an area principal for Pam Golding Properties: Durban Coastal, said the development will feature a 9-hole signature golf course designed by Novo Landscape and Golf Course Architects, along with a golf clubhouse incorporating simulation suites.

Additional amenities include a wellness centre, spa, gym, clubhouse, indoor pools, pool house, padel and pickleball courts, restaurant and snack bar, co-working spaces, jogging and cycling paths, as well as direct access to the beach via security gates.

“Security features include three gatehouses with 24/7 manned security; biometric access control; barrier and electric fencing; cameras linked to guardhouses and dedicated estate patrols.”

THE MERCURY