Capital of cool: students have made Braamfontein their new domain.
As Johannesburg’s inner city continues to benefit from the investments brought on by a commitment from the City of Johannesburg (CoJ) and the Urban Development Zone (UDZ) tax incentive, more and more districts are starting to shine. One of these spaces is the Braamfontein precinct, which for many years lay derelict on the edges of the once vibrant city centre. Today, however, the area brims with energy and has a sunny outlook as investment transforms the landscape.
According to Lebo Ramoreboli, deputy director, integrated regional economic development, City of Johannesburg, over the past decade Braamfontein has developed into South Africa’s definitive new-generation student precinct. It is home to the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) and surrounded by an exciting and eclectic mix of coffee shops, galleries and local and international brands.
Amid the iconic brand names and large retail outlets are some splendid mom-and-pop shops that offer useful services to students and visitors alike. Stirred into the mix is affordable accommodation, hotels, markets, restaurants, offices and student residences. And, of course, the student presence ensures a bustling nightlife as the youth dance the night away in a variety of clubs and bars that form the fun fabric of the area.
Braamfontein is easily accessible and the array of public transportation services makes it easy for people to visit and get around. Taxis, the Metrobus, Rea Vaya and Metrorail to the nearby Gautrain Park Station are readily available, and for those who wish to cycle into the area, Braamfontein now has bike lane systems in place. Those who are on foot benefit the most, however, as the precinct’s renovation was focused on creating a pedestrian-friendly street culture. Everything a person needs is within easy walking distance.
Ongoing development is keeping the area alive and bubbling as new bars, stores and restaurants enter the scene. There is also a focus on ensuring the sustainability of the area through property development and office space.
Tiny Braamfontein has played a vital role in reviving Johannesburg’s inner city. It has some of the best public art in the city and the streets are clean and vibrant. It is also attracting significant business interest in the form of young entrepreneurs and NGOs.
Ramoreboli adds that for many, Braamfontein, more than Maboneng, is the new capital of cool in South Africa. This is driven by the availability of impressive nightlife and dining experiences as well as the artworks that line the streets, but also by the South Point student residences, which are now home to more than 5 000 students.
Today, Braamfontein is clean, safe and fun. It has transformed from a place where few would venture to one where everyone wants to be. Thanks to the efforts of the Braamfontein Municipal District, the CoJ, UDZ and investment partners Sappi, the JD Group, Liberty Group, Nedbank, Apex-Hi and the community it has become an economically and socially viable hub that has reached its full potential.