Crookes Brothers Unveil R15 Billion 'Little Ballito' Mega Development on KZN South Coast

Crookes Brothers Limited, the JSE-listed agricultural company, has taken a significant leap into property development with the launch of the next phase of its ambitious R15 billion Renishaw Coastal Precinct Project. Situated near Scottburgh on the scenic KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, the project is expected to inject vibrancy and growth into the region by mirroring the success seen on KZN's North Coast, particularly the bustling area of Ballito.

At a media briefing, Crookes Brothers CEO Kennett Sinclair articulated his vision for Scottburgh as the next focal point of coastal development within the province. Under the management of Renishaw Property Developments, the development covers approximately 1,300 hectares, with a steadfast commitment to preserving the ecosystem as 80% of the land will be dedicated to conservation.

The coastal enclave is set to feature a 10,000m2 upmarket shopping centre funded by Cubisol Property Fund, alongside a plethora of amenities such as a hotel, petrol station, convenience and fast-food outlets, a private school, light industrial and commercial zones, a church, as well as diverse housing options.

Renishaw Hills, the precinct's initial phase and "mature lifestyle village," already boasts a community of around 350 residents. The comprehensive vision for Renishaw Coastal Precinct aligns with President Cyril Ramaphosa's infrastructure investment drive, creating a synergy of local collaboration and investment appeal.

Managing Director, Barto van der Merwe, highlights the value proposition for investors, underpinned by strong partnerships with local businesses. The focus on building local economic capacity resonates with the overarching objectives of the Eastern Seaboard Development Initiative, which aims to streamline development processes and stimulate economic prospects in the area.

Current negotiations with church officials and education professionals indicate the wide-ranging impact of the precinct, which will also include leisure activities like Padel courts. There is a firm commitment to self-reliance, with developers working closely with Umdoni and eThekwini municipalities to address infrastructure needs, ensuring the precinct's independence in essential services.

The development, which gained recognition at the Presidential Investment Conference in 2023, represents one of the largest active projects in South Africa, setting a precedent for sustainable and integrated community living. Construction for the aforementioned mall and fuel station is projected to commence in the second quarter of 2025, paving the way for a transformed and revitalized KZN South Coast.