Over 2 000 trees being planted at Garden Cities’ Oakwood
Groves of more than 2 000 olive trees will create an income for residents of a picturesque village development, Oakwood, on the outskirts of Durbanville, where, over the next five years, 600 homes will be built.
In its first phase, Oakwood, which is part of the major Garden Cities development Pinehurst, will accommodate 200 homes, over 100 of which have already been built and occupied. Up to now, 400 olive trees have been planted and by the time the planting programme is completed, more than 2 000 will be established on roadsides and in groves in open spaces throughout the village.
Garden Cities, by its nature, creates pleasing living environments for the communities we establish, and planting has always been a major focus,’ said John Matthews, CEO of the company which last year received the Govan Mbeki Award for Best Builder in South Africa. ‘Now, in the spirit of sustainability, we have decided to plant trees that will bear fruit to create an income for the residents of the village. The olive trees are hardy and bear within four to five years. We have chosen varietals, Mission and Frantoio, that produce olives that are both good for pickling and oil production.’
Once the trees begin to bear, members of the residents’ association will form a committee to oversee the harvesting and processing of the olives. Income will be used to stabilize the village levies.
Oakwood and its neighbouring villages developed by Garden Cities are hallmarked by beautifully landscaped surroundings, spectacular views over the Durbanville Hills, and interior luxury.
As each stage of the gated estate develops, new decorative and practical features are added including meadows and parks in keeping with the rural feel of the development, which is conveniently close to all amenities and A-grade retail. Among the features is a beautifully designed village fountain in one of the numerous public open spaces.
The well-finished freestanding homes, on plots of 650m2 at Oakwood have generous features that include granite-topped kitchen and vanity units, built-in Bosch hobs and ovens, and architecturally designed interiors that make the most of the spaces.
Built in a striking West Coast farmhouse style, the houses are on sale for prices from R1.055 million to R1.435 million.
Security is a high priority at Oakwood which is protected by electrified fencing, and an 800-metre block and palisade fence perimeter wall, together with a gatehouse and 24-hour manned access control.
Quality and value provide our significant edge. With interest rates now dropping, we expect the market for our houses to expand dramatically.’
Since establishing Pinehurst, Garden Cities has completed the construction and sale of nearly 1 000 homes in the first two phases and the start of Oakwood.