Fourways has transformed from a semi-rural crossroads into one of Johannesburg’s fastest-growing development nodes. The area surrounding the Fourways Crossing intersection, along with suburbs such as Lonehill, Dainfern, Cedar Lakes, Craigavon, and Douglasdale, continues to experience intense development pressure as commercial investment and residential densification reshape the landscape. Our town planning consultancy has deep experience in this rapidly evolving part of the city and understands the specific frameworks that govern development applications in the greater Fourways area.
The Fourways Growth Node
The City of Johannesburg’s Spatial Development Framework identifies Fourways as a significant growth node within Region A, recognising its role as a major economic and residential hub in the northern suburbs. The Fourways Precinct Plan provides detailed policy guidance for the area, encouraging mixed-use development, higher residential densities along key corridors such as William Nicol Drive and Witkoppen Road, and the creation of a more integrated urban environment around the Fourways Mall precinct.
Historically, much of the Fourways area was zoned for agricultural or low-density residential use under the Johannesburg Town Planning Scheme. The rapid pace of development has meant that many properties carry outdated zonings that do not reflect the current or intended character of the area. This creates substantial opportunities for property owners and developers to pursue rezoning applications that align with the nodal growth policies.
Common Applications We Handle
- Estate subdivisions - Managing the subdivision of large residential stands within and adjacent to security estates in Dainfern, Fourways Gardens, and Cedar Lakes, including coordination with homeowners’ associations and the City of Johannesburg
- Commercial development applications - Preparing rezoning submissions for retail centres, office parks, and showrooms along William Nicol Drive, Witkoppen Road, and the Fourways Crossing commercial precinct
- Mixed-use development approvals - Submitting applications for integrated developments combining residential, retail, and office components, in line with the nodal policy encouraging live-work-play environments throughout the Fourways area
- Consent use for home businesses - Assisting property owners in Lonehill, Craigavon, and surrounding suburbs with applications to operate professional practices, studios, or small businesses from their residential properties
- Residential densification - Preparing applications for townhouse and apartment developments in areas identified for densification under the Spatial Development Framework, particularly along transit corridors and close to commercial amenities
Navigating Fourways Planning Requirements
Applications in Fourways face specific challenges, including traffic congestion concerns, bulk infrastructure capacity constraints, and the need to balance growth with the suburban character valued by existing residents. The Municipal Planning Tribunal assesses applications against the Spatial Development Framework, the Regional Spatial Development Framework for Region A, and the Fourways Precinct Plan. Our planning reports provide robust motivations that address these policy requirements and anticipate potential objections.
Key Suburbs We Serve
Our Fourways expertise covers Fourways, Lonehill, Dainfern, Fourways Gardens, Cedar Lakes, Craigavon, Douglasdale, Magaliessig, and Chartwell. Each suburb presents unique planning considerations, from estate architectural guidelines to environmental sensitivity along river corridors.
If you own property in the Fourways area and are considering a development application, our team can assess your site’s potential and manage the full planning approval process on your behalf.
Contact us for Fourways property advice.