Durbanville: A Commercial Property Area Guide

A brief introduction and history of the town

Durbanville is a town in the Western Cape province of South Africa, about 30 km north of Cape Town. It is one of the region's fastest-growing and most sought-after commercial property areas, offering a range of office, retail, industrial and mixed-use spaces. Durbanville is known for its scenic beauty, historic charm, excellent amenities and proximity to major highways and the Cape Town International Airport.

The town was founded in the early 19th century as a watering station for travellers and farmers. It was initially named Pampoenkraal (Pumpkin Corral) after a local farmer grew pumpkins on his land. In 1836, the town was renamed D'Urban after Sir Benjamin D'Urban, the governor of the Cape Colony. However, the name was confused with the port city of Durban in KwaZulu-Natal, so in 1886, the town was renamed Durbanville, meaning Durban's town.

Throughout its history, Durbanville has been a centre of agriculture, especially wine production. Durbanville is known for its wine industry, which dates back to the 17th century when the Dutch settlers planted the first vineyards. The town has several renowned wine estates, such as Durbanville Hills, Meerendal, Diemersdal and Altydgedacht. The Durbanville Wine Valley is a popular tourist attraction that offers wine tasting, restaurants, art galleries, and cultural events. Durbanville also has a rich cultural heritage, with several historic buildings, monuments and museums, such as the Durbanville Rose Garden, the Durbanville Nature Reserve, the Durbanville Library and the Durbanville Museum.

Location and proximity to amenities

Durbanville is a town on the northern outskirts of the Cape Town metropolitan area along the N1 highway, which connects Cape Town with significant cities like Johannesburg and Pretoria. As part of the City of Cape Town municipality and the Tygerberg district, Durbanville is surrounded by suburbs such as Bellville, Kenridge, Welgemoed, Eversdal, and Kraaifontein.

Durbanville is primarily a residential area and offers various shopping facilities for residents and visitors. Prominent retail centres include The Village Square,  Cobble Walk, De Ville Centre, Glengarry Shopping Centre, and Palm Grove Centre. In addition, several office parks are nearby, such as Vineyards Office State, High Street Village Office and Retail Park, and 12 Plein Street.

Adjacent to Durbanville is Tyger Valley, a significant business and retail hub featuring Tyger Valley Shopping Centre, Willowbridge Lifestyle Centre, Tyger Waterfront and numerous office parks and hotels.

The town is approximately 30 km from the central district and other towns and cities like Paarl, Stellenbosch, Worcester and George. Durbanville is also conveniently located near the R300 and M5 roads, linking it to Cape Town's southern and eastern suburbs and the N2 highway's coastal route.

Durbanville is near two major airports: Cape Town International Airport, about 25 km away, offering domestic and international flights, and Stellenbosch Airport, approximately 35 km away, providing general aviation services.

The town's location and accessibility make living, working, and visiting attractive. It offers a suburban lifestyle close to urban amenities and opportunities in Cape Town. It also serves as a gateway to the scenic and cultural attractions of the Western Cape, such as the Winelands, the West Coast, and the Garden Route.

Industrial and commercial areas around or near Durbanville include Tyger Valley, Stikland, Parow, Brackenfell and Montague Gardens. These areas host a range of businesses, from manufacturing and engineering to retail and entertainment, contributing to the region's economic diversity.

Environmental Factors

Durbanville is transitional between the Cape Peninsula's Mediterranean climate and the inland region's semi-arid climate. The town has a mild and wet winter, with an average minimum temperature of 8°C and an average maximum temperature of 18°C and a warm and dry summer, with an average minimum temperature of 15°C and an average maximum temperature of 28°C. The annual rainfall is about 550 mm, mainly between May and September. Durbanville is prone to south-easterly solid summer winds and north-westerly winter winds.

Durbanville is surrounded by hills and valleys that form part of the Cape Fold Belt. This geological feature was created by the folding and faulting of sedimentary rocks during the Paleozoic era. The town lies on the Tygerberg Hills, composed of sandstone and shale and offers scenic views of Table Mountain and the Cape Flats. The hills also host several nature reserves, such as the Tygerberg Nature Reserve, the Majik Forest, and the Door de Kraal Dam. These reserves provide habitat for various plant and animal species, such as proteas, ericas, restios, sugarbirds, sunbirds and mongooses.

Public Transport

Durbanville is a vibrant and growing town that offers a variety of attractions and amenities to its residents and visitors. However, like many other towns in South Africa, it faces the challenge of providing adequate public transport, which is essential for reducing traffic congestion, air pollution and carbon emissions. The town is mainly served by minibus taxis and buses, and the nearest train station is in Bellville, about 10 km away, which leads to various destinations across the Cape Town area. The Northern Line connects Bellville with Cape Town Central, Kraaifontein, Eerste River and Wellington.

Several initiatives have been implemented to improve public transport in Durbanville and make it more attractive, convenient and sustainable. One is the MyCiTi bus rapid transit system, which operates in Cape Town and connects various suburbs with the city centre and the airport. A new route, the T06, was launched in 2018, linking Durbanville with Table View and Century City. The route has 26 stations and runs along Durban Road, one of the town's main arteries. The MyCiTi buses are modern, comfortable, wheelchair-accessible, and use a cashless payment system. The buses run every 10 minutes during peak hours and every 20 minutes during off-peak hours.

Another initiative is the Cape Town Integrated Transport Plan (ITP), which aims to integrate different modes of transport and create a sustainable and efficient transport network for the city and its surrounding areas. The ITP foresee the expansion of the MyCiTi system, the upgrade of the rail system, the development of non-motorized transport facilities, such as bicycle lanes and pedestrian walkways, and the promotion of transport demand management measures, such as carpooling and flexible working hours. The ITP also includes the construction of a new highway, the N7-M12, which will link Durbanville with Malmesbury and the West Coast.

Security

Besides public transport, crime and security are other aspects that affect the quality of life in Durbanville. Durbanville is generally considered a safe and peaceful town, with a low crime rate compared to different parts of Cape Town. The town has a dedicated police station and several private security companies that patrol the streets and respond to emergencies. The residents also cooperate and form neighbourhood watches and community forums to prevent and report crime. Durbanville has a strong sense of community and social cohesion, which helps to create a safe and friendly environment.

Infrastructure

Another factor that influences the quality of life in Durbanville is the availability and reliability of infrastructure and essential services. Durbanville is well-served by local infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, drainage, street lighting and waste management. The town has several major roads that connect it to the rest of Cape Town and the Western Cape province, as well as public transport options, such as buses, taxis, and trains. Durbanville also has a range of public facilities, such as schools, libraries, clinics, hospitals, sports grounds and parks, nature reserves and horse racing that cater to the needs and interests of the residents.

Durbanville also enjoys access to essential services like electricity, water, sanitation, and internet. The town is connected to the national grid and receives a stable supply of electricity, which is vital for economic and social activities. The town also has a reliable water source, provided by the City of Cape Town and supplemented by boreholes, dams, and rainwater harvesting. The city has adequate sanitation systems, such as sewerage, stormwater, and solid waste disposal, which ensure a clean and healthy environment. Furthermore, the city has a high rate of internet penetration, which enables communication, information, and entertainment. According to the 2016 Community Survey, 93.4% of households in Durbanville had access to electricity, 99.9% had access to piped water, 98.2% had access to flush toilets, and 85.7% had access to the internet.

Property Market

One factor that determines the quality of life in Durbanville is the property market, which reflects the demand and supply of residential and commercial properties in the town. Various factors, such as location, infrastructure, amenities, security, and economic activity, influence the property market in Durbanville. In this section, we will focus on the commercial property market in Durbanville, which consists of properties used for business purposes, such as offices, retail, industrial, and agricultural.

The commercial property market in Durbanville also offers various rental opportunities suitable for businesses that prefer flexibility and affordability. The average rate per square meter of commercial properties for rent in Durbanville as of April 2024 is R180/m, with a minimum rate of R130/m² and a maximum rate of R250/m². The average size of commercial properties for rent in Durbanville was 250m², with a minimum length of 50m² and a maximum size of 850m².

In Durbanville, the price of townhouses varies depending on the size and location. 2-bedroom units can cost from R2,265,000 to R3,193,000. 3-bedroom townhouses can be between R2,150,000 and R4,795,000. The prices in Durbanville Central are from R2,350,000 to R3,395,000. A 4-bedroom townhouse costs about R2,700,000. For houses, 3-bedroom homes in Graanendal can range from R3,190,000 to R3,855,500. 4-bedroom houses in Graanendal can be from R4,650,000 to R8,850,000. 5-bedroom houses can start from R5,995,000 and go up to R9,999,000.

The commercial property market in Durbanville is expected to grow and prosper in the coming years as the town attracts more businesses and investments, especially in the wake of the Winelands Airport upgrade. Durbanville offers a competitive advantage for companies that seek to operate in a strategic location with access to quality infrastructure, services, amenities, and a vibrant and diverse community.

Upgrade of Winelands Airport

One of the most exciting developments that will enhance the quality of life in Durbanville is the planned upgrade of Winelands Airport, located about 13 kilometres from the town centre. The Winelands Airport, formerly known as the Fisantekraal Airfield, is a small airport serving mainly private and recreational flights. However, the City of Cape Town has approved a R7 billion proposal to transform the airport into a modern regional facility catering to domestic and international flights and cargo and logistics operations.

The upgrade of the Winelands Airport will have multiple benefits for Durbanville and its surrounding areas. Firstly, it will increase the value of the property market, as the airport will attract more investors, developers, and buyers to the region. The airport will also create more employment opportunities, generating demand for various services, such as hospitality, tourism, retail, and transportation. Secondly, it will boost the local economy and facilitate trade, commerce, and innovation. The airport will provide a platform for local businesses to expand their markets, access new suppliers, and collaborate with other stakeholders. The airport will also enable the development of new industries, such as aviation, aerospace, and renewable energy. Thirdly, it will improve the connectivity and accessibility of Durbanville, as it will reduce the travel time and cost to other destinations. The airport will offer travellers more convenience and choice, providing direct flights to major cities like Johannesburg, Durban, and Port Elizabeth. The airport will also complement the existing public transport network, integrating it with the bus, taxi, and rail systems.

The upgrade of the Winelands Airport began in November 2023. The project will involve the construction of a new terminal building, runway, apron, and control tower, as well as the installation of security, navigation, and communication systems. It will also incorporate environmental and social considerations, such as noise mitigation, water conservation, and community engagement. The Winelands Airport will be a game-changer for Durbanville, enhancing its attractiveness, competitiveness, and livability.

Durbanville is a town in the Western Cape province of South Africa, located about 30 km north of Cape Town. It is part of the City of Cape Town metropolitan municipality and is a popular residential and commercial area known for its scenic views, historic buildings, and wine farms. Durbanville has a lot to offer its residents and visitors and has a promising future in business growth, new opportunities, and commercial and industrial property.

Business Growth

Durbanville has much potential to create new opportunities for its residents and visitors, especially in arts, culture, and sports. The town has a rich heritage and a vibrant creative scene, with several festivals, exhibitions, and performances throughout the year. The city can capitalize on these assets to enhance its social and cultural capital and generate more income and employment. Durbanville can also explore new avenues for collaboration and exchange with other local and global communities, such as through cultural diplomacy, twinning agreements and exchange programs.

The town also has several development projects underway or planned. As the Winelands Airport improves its accessibility and visibility, the city can expect increased value and demand for its commercial and industrial properties. To improve the quality and attractiveness of its properties, the town can adopt more sustainable and innovative practices, such as green building, energy efficiency, and waste management.

Durbanville is a flourishing suburb that marries the charm of wine country with the convenience of city proximity. Here's an extended summary and conclusion to capture the essence of this area for prospective businesses:

Summary:

• Durbanville boasts a unique combination of rural charm and urban efficiency.
• Close to Cape Town, it offers a less congested alternative for businesses.
• The area is renowned for excellent schools, healthcare, and shopping centres.
• Local wine estates and golf courses provide leisure and networking opportunities.
• Commercial development is growing, evidenced by modern office parks and retail spaces.
• Its community values green spaces and supports eco-friendly initiatives.

Conclusion:

As a business hub, Durbanville provides a strategic location that benefits from the countryside's tranquillity and the city's buzz. It's an ideal place for companies looking for growth potential in a community that values the quality of life and sustainable development. With its robust infrastructure, diverse amenities, and growing economy, Durbanville is a cornerstone for thriving businesses.