RIDGESIDE - UMHLANGA NEW TOWN

RIDGESIDE is developed by Tongaat Hulett Developments, located on a beautiful sea facing slope is the final evelopment package that will link the Umhlanga Rocks with Umhlanga New Town.  It is designed to become a mixed use urban development comprised of low and high density residential units, retail and offices, complemented with a series of urban and natural parks. Working in conjunction with ASM Urban Designers, NLA were tasked with establishing an overall landscape strategy and the design and implementation of all open spaces systems and road verges.

Drawing on an ‘eco-urbanism’ philosophy, the shaping of green networks and re-utilisation of storm water run-off formed an integral part of the landscape strategy. High on the priority list was the protection, rehabilitation and sensitive utilization of the 26 ha forest located along the eastern edge of the site. A forest management plan was compiled in collaboration with local ecologists who are assisting in the education and empowerment of a small business initiative that will take over the long-term maintenance of the forest.

In collaboration with Wally Menne, an ecologist, NLA compiled a diverse and completely indigenous planting palette.  Landscape implementation codes for each development site, were also established to ensure the appropriate, ecologic and aesthetic, realization of the planting schemes. 

To secure the required plant materials, a site procurement nursery is being established in association with the Wildlands Trust. This will ensure the availability of adequately sized plants and is another initiative to create local employment opportunities. Landscape value: R 121 million  over 2006 to present.