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Johannesburg's Nodal Review: What It Means for Property Owners

Understanding how Johannesburg's Nodal Review affects development rights, densification, and property potential.

Johannesburg’s Nodal Review represents a significant urban planning policy initiative that affects property owners across the city.

Background

The review emerged from the City’s 2016 adoption of the Spatial Development Framework 2040, which identified the need for a comprehensive nodal reassessment. Following public participation workshops in 2017, the City released a draft document in February 2018.

Major Policy Changes

The review fundamentally alters development approaches by:

  • Removing rigid nodal boundaries
  • Permitting residential densification on a much more intense scale
  • Establishing that Urban Development Frameworks and Precinct Plans will be valid for five years before automatic rescission

This potentially affects established areas like Athol, Dunkeld, and Rosebank.

Development Density Implications

The policy could substantially increase permitted densities, with rezoning applications potentially seeking 60, 80 or even 100 dwelling units per hectare. This represents a dramatic shift from previous guidelines.

What This Means for You

If you own property in Johannesburg, these changes may affect your development rights and subdivision provisions.

Contact us to understand how the Nodal Review affects your property.

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