Construction of the much-anticipated Renishaw environmental development near Scottburgh on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast has begun, with completion of the first phase expected in mid-2017. “The initial demand for houses in this mature lifestyle village was high with interest in the development continuing to grow as the plans have unfolded,” explained Phillip Barker, managing director of Renishaw Property Developments. “Only three of the 28 standalone houses in Phase One are still available for purchase with considerable interest shown in the next phase.” In addition to the two and three-bedroom houses in Phase One – occupancy of which is anticipated from about July 2017 – Renishaw Hills will offer buyers a further 32 standalone houses in Phase Two, as well as single-storey maisonettes, each with separate entrances. There are also plans for a two-storey apartment block consisting of one and two-bedroom units, all centred around a naturally landscaped village square. “We are very excited about the designs architectural organisation, ZAARC, has outlined for each structure,” said Barker. “Every effort has been made to maximise on natural lighting and breezes, with every unit blending harmoniously with the surrounding natural features.” He added that all construction will be undertaken by local companies as job creation and economic upliftment in the area are a strong part of the development’s focus. These will form the first of a number of contemporary housing developments which will unfold into an estate of interconnected commercial and residential villages over the next two to three decades – all with a strong emphasis on the abundant natural elements found within this tranquil Mpambanyoni Conservation Development. The positioning of Renishaw Hills will allow residents to enjoy captivating ocean views, the pristine coastal forest and untouched wetlands in one of the country’s most picturesque locations. All final approvals from Umdoni Municipality and the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Environmental Affairs have been received, providing developers with the necessary green light for construction to commence. The initial step will be the creation of two showhouses as well as 3km access road from the entrance to Renishaw Hills’ gatehouse which is also currently under construction. All electrical and water reticulation services, security fences, waste removal and communications’ infrastructure will begin in the next few months. The access road is anticipated to take nine months to complete because it traverses a natural wetland which is being simultaneously restored by Renishaw Hills’ developers. “The development is centred on the overwhelming beauty of the region and we are committed to restoring and rehabilitating the natural flora and fauna throughout,” said Barker. To this end, renowned South African landscaper and botanist, Elsa Pooley, has come on board to oversee all environmental projects. Pooley is being closely assisted by a leading expert in rehabilitation in KwaZulu-Natal, Geoff Nichols. Barker said the development’s focus on community and a hassle-free lifestyle in harmony with nature resonated with people seeking residence in this secure, coastal estate. The wellbeing of every resident is a priority for Renishaw Hills, which is why there will be high quality, 24-hour healthcare as well as state-of-the-art security in the form of electrified perimeter fencing, constant patrols, security lighting and surveillance cameras. This expansive, yet unobtrusive, security system will allow residents to enjoy the laidback, outdoor lifestyle synonymous with the perennially warm South Coast.