Plettenberg Bay CBD gets R60 million retail boost

"A destination of choice for tourists, as well as South African and international development investors, Plettenberg Bay has seen a significant growth in tourism numbers. The Upper Deck has been created to meet the market need for superior quality penthouse-style living which with the exception of a few buildings, built approximately 15-20 years ago, was almost non-existent," says developer Ara Manuelian and partner Noelle Bolton.

Sold, not rented

An interesting aspect to this development is the fact that the commercial units have been sold as opposed to being rented out, thus providing local small business entrepreneurs the rare opportunity of owning their business premises.

Executive mayor Lulama Mvimbi of the Bitou Municipal region, which includes Plettenberg Bay, describes the region as a vigorous municipal area and has a desire to see unity amongst the people to help achieve this regeneration process.

"What we see here is the realisation of the municipality's dream to take Plettenberg Bay to the next level through its CBD renewal program and to give it the recognition it deserves as one of the country's premier destinations. It is about time that both residents and visitors alike see this important transformation which will eventually lead to reinforce our tourism and economic potential," says Mvimbi.

The agents responsible for marketing The Upper Deck - Sotheby's International Realty South Africa - state that their research indicated that in 2005, the total value of all property transfers in the area amounted to just under R900 million, reiterating the popularity of the area.

Plettenberg Bay's airport is also due for an upgrade, according to Steven Neufeld of Sotheby's. "This will certainly make Plettenberg Bay more accessible," he adds, with the obvious consideration of the regular holiday/home owner commuter in addition to the influx of travelling tourists.

Natural cornerstone

"The Upper Deck was a natural cornerstone to the upliftment of central Plettenberg Bay and the Main Street. Its timing worked perfectly with the commencement of the upgrading of the Main Street corridor, which was long awaited from the municipality. Plans had been made public for comment almost 24 months ago," says Manuelian.

"The Upper Deck has also contributed towards the upgrading of the southern end of Main Street, which would only have been possible in another 2 - 3 years' time mainly due to municipal budget constraints. In addition, Plettenberg Street's upgrading and the section of Marine Drive in front of The Upper Deck has been widened to accommodate dual traffic lanes, thus improving the overall Urban Rejuvenation Program of Bitou municipality," he adds.

A crèche has also been established by The Upper Deck Foundation for marginalised and destitute children in order to reduce their chances of delinquency and improve their lives so that they may become well adjusted and successful adults. The establishment of the crèche is just the first phase of the foundation.