Another mixed-use development on the cards for Sea Point

One of the buildings that could be demolished in Sea Point to make way for a new retail and residential site.

Yet another mixed-use development is on the cards for Sea Point. This comes after property group, the Berman Brothers, confirmed it has plans to build a mixed commercial and residential building where the Monreve flats are now.

In 2014 the Berman Brothers Group, together with HCI, bought the Kloof Road Nedbank Centre as well as its adjoining properties, which include the four Monreve flats.

The flats were bought over a period of time, with the last one being acquired in July this year, and the Berman Brothers Group said it was considering demolishing them.

It confirmed plans for a mixed-use site but could not confirm yet when construction would start.

Rod Stevens, who is on the planning sub-committee of the Sea Point, Fresnaye and Bantry Bay Residents’ and Ratepayers’ Association (SFBRRA), said they had not objected to the demolition of the Monreve building because it “is of insufficient heritage significance to warrant retention”.

In a statement, the Berman Brothers Group said: “In perspective, the existing Nedbank Centre and surrounding properties are in a very bad state of repair and the buildings are structurally compromised. This will require substantial development work. Not only that, but parking in Sea Point, while always in short supply, has been further constrained by the extent of the development in the area.

“The new development will solve both of these problems: it is planned to be a superb mixed-use redevelopment into both retail and residential space, with plenty of parking to take pressure off the demand in the area. Plans include a cutting edge design as befits its location, which will create another landmark building, complemented by an excellent mix of tenants. Despite the fact that it is only in the design phase, the developers have already recorded high demand for both retail and residential space.”

The property group said SFBRRA’s planning sub-committee had reviewed a heritage architect’s report. “The report is conclusive in that the building is not of any heritage merit. Numerous alterations have been done over the years, which detract from its authenticity, and many have been done which are not in keeping with the style and period of the building.

Paul Berman added: “Our aim is to enhance the area and improve the value of surrounding properties, as we have done with many other developments in the area. We’re looking to create a vibrant and alternative shopping experience in an innovatively designed shopping centre that residents will be proud to call their own.”

Johan van der Merwe, the City’s mayoral committee member for energy, environmental and spatial planning, said they had not yet received a demolition application for the buildings at the site of the proposed development.