Online Reporter
Raymond Jaravaza, Sunday News Reporter
THE Bulawayo City Council (BCC) has accelerated plans to develop a mega infrastructure project at Ascot to include up market homes and business units to cater for various retail and office space operations.
The plans cover the establishment of a luxury hotel with state-of-the-art conference facilities as part of the city’s modernisation drive meant to spur local economic growth.
The project known as the “Ascot Precinct Plan” will be located on a large open area of the former Ascot Racecourse, a space that council says presents a significant urban re-development opportunity by virtue of its location to surrounding established neighbourhoods and transportation networks.
According to council, the size and location of the area make it an ideal place for comprehensive planning to extend the city.
Mr Shelton Sithole from the city’s Town Planning Department recently presented the proposals to stakeholders who included business, councillors, residents and the media.
“The Ascot Precinct is strategically located in an affluent area of Bulawayo, surrounded by established residential neighbourhoods and key urban amenities,” he said.
“Its central position provides significant opportunities for integrating the development with the existing urban fabric while enhancing connectivity throughout the city,” said Mr Sithole.
The ambitious project will present a once-in-a-generation opportunity for a 68-hectare landmark development that will enhance the city’s urban landscape for decades to come.
The project envisages a complete transformation of the city’s landscape while honouring the site’s heritage and embracing contemporary urban design principles.
The ambitious project is inspired by commercial developments such as the Mall of Africa in South Africa, Two Rivers in Kenya and Accra Mall in Ghana.
“These successful African commercial developments provide important precedents for the scale, design quality, and market positioning appropriate for the Ascot Precinct commercial component,” said Mr Sithole.
“The mall will host high-end beauty and wellness brands, including top international names and exclusive boutiques that attract regional shoppers.”
The upmarket homes that the city plans to build have been described as offering a vibrant, workable and liveable environment that meets the needs of the community through thoughtful urban design and amenities.
Speaking on the hotels and short stay accommodation facilities that the Ascot Precinct Plan will offer Mr Sithole said council wants to create an environment that will encourage the building of more hotels and conference facilities to support tourism and business activities.
Some of the key emerging planning issues that council has identified are population dynamics that might result in the possibility of return migration and economic recovery, which could significantly impact housing demand in the coming years.
“The residential component is critical to creating a vibrant, 24-hour community within the precinct, supporting other uses while addressing Bulawayo’s housing needs,” he said.
Council is looking at enhancing the city’s commercial profile and competitiveness by offering recreational amenities such as football pitches and a grandstand area into a cohesive sports precinct to offer accessibility and create a focal point for recreational activities.
“The integration of diverse recreational facilities, such as parks, playgrounds, and walking trails will enhance the area’s livability and promote community well-being through active and passive recreation options,” said Mr Sithole.
The local authority also aims to remedy urban decay through Ascot Precinct Plan.
On healthcare facilities the project is expected to offer an integrated state-of-the-art public health facility that will address the identified gaps in healthcare provision for the growing city population.
The proposed mall is set to become Bulawayo’s pride for commerce to feature world-class design and amenities.
“The mall will not just be functional but will be designed to offer an immersive shopping experience that blends luxury with culture,” said Mr Sithole.
“The design will feature a seamless blend of modernity, and elegance, with expansive glass facades and sophisticated interiors that set new standards.”
A modern office park zone will also be established and this is set to attract businesses and foster job creation while stimulating local economic activity as well as complementing surrounding mixed-use developments, said Mr Sithole.
He said a 400-room luxury hotel is earmarked to be Bulawayo’s largest and most modern hospitality landmark that will address the city’s critical shortage of upscale accommodation.
“It will also include a state-of-the-art conference centre with multi-purpose halls, ideal for corporate summits, weddings and international expos that attract visitors to Bulawayo,” said Mr Sithole.
