The Woodland Wonderland

Umhlanga has been recognised as the playground of the well heeled for many years and has attracted investors and speculators from across the country and overseas. The new arrivals can look forward to our fabulous moderate climate, our pristine beaches and our family orientated, holistic approach to life.

Next week a true investment opportunity is scheduled to be unveiled to investors. The Woodland in Prestondale, is the latest gem in the fast expanding Umhlanga Ridge precinct hub. This development offers a town and country setting, with prime location, a grander lifestyle and unrestrained luxury.

Investors purchasing The Woodland property can look forward to a unique new sectional title estate, which is being developed by NASA Developments. The property is in a quiet enclave that is walking distance to the Gateway Theatre of Shopping and the bustling heart of Umhlanga. A real draw card for the estate is that it will be pet friendly.

The Woodland will be developed on 2 hectares of sprawling coastal forest, with towering 60-year-old trees that provide deep shade, fresh air and a home for dozens of bird species. The estate will offer just 39 freestanding homes, and in keeping with their tranquil natural environment, the homes in The Woodland will all be built using the latest ìgreen technologyî designs and materials to ensure that they are energy-efficient and eco-friendly.

Speaking to Stephen Porteous from SDP Consultants CC, who is in charge of sales, he said, "We are working with Norwegian investors who love KZN and have completed many investments in our country," Said Stephen, "They have a holistic approach to all their developments and believe in fair and sustainable projects."

Sustainable Architecture, by award winning Sagnelli Architects, will incorporate natural construction materials such as stone, wood and glass, in these modern farm-style homes. While gas stoves and heat pumps will limit energy consumption ñ and keep costs down. Rainwater harvesting is also part of the overall estate design, as is storm-water management and recycling. Residents will also be able to use borehole water for their private back gardens and will be encouraged to grow vegetables for their own use.

Architectural design features include generous roof overhangs to limit heat ingress, cross ventilation to limit the need for artificial cooling in summer and covered verandas to facilitate indoor/ outdoor living, that makes the most of the beautiful surroundings and creates a safe social environment for growing families.

Communal amenities on the estate will include an entertainment area, swimming pool, children's play area and walking / cycling trails around the perimeter. This will be secured with concrete palisade and electric fencing, and further security measures include controlled-access via a guardhouse, electronic surveillance and CCTV.

Residents of The Woodland will truly have the best of both worlds, country-style living in a peaceful, stress-free environment, and the convenience of living close to top schools and upmarket shops, medical facilities and sports venues. The estate is also just 15 minutes drive from King Shaka International airport via the new freeway interchange, and less than 10 minutes from Umhlanga's main beach and the trendy restaurants and nightlife of Umhlanga Village.

All the homes have three bedrooms and double garages and selling at prices start from R2,9m. The homes in The Woodland are a perfect fit for young professionals with growing families, as well as investors seeking a second home or a high-end rental property for executives of the many blue-chip companies based in Umhlanga Ridge. There will be no transfer duty payable on these properties as they are being sold off-plan by the developer.