We spoke to the developer, the founder of the fast-growing North Point business park. He shares amazing insight into the development and how it is shaping our business economy on the North Coast.
North Point Ballito is an 80-hectare business park strategically located between the N2 and R102, offering convenient access to central Ballito and King Shaka International Airport. From its inception, North Point was envisioned as a thriving hub for businesses on the North Coast, designed to foster growth and success. The founders, drawing on their entrepreneurial experiences, aimed to create a secure, well-managed, and architecturally cohesive space equipped with excellent infrastructure and amenities. While the park’s core vision remains unchanged, the evolving nature of the business landscape has led to a more adaptable approach. Flexibility and agility have become essential in ensuring that North Point continues to meet the needs of its growing community and stays aligned with the latest industry demands.
How has a forward-thinking business community vision been realised within the business park?
Over the past three and a half years, we have had the unique opportunity to engage with investors at every stage of their business planning, from initial on-site discussions to the development of structural plans for warehousing, showrooms, retail spaces, light industry, and services. This process has revealed a diverse range of ideas while highlighting a shared outlook and approach among our investors.
A prime example of this is the billion rand investment by Alpla, a world leader in the development and production of innovative plastic packaging solutions, on our largest site. Their new facility is a testament to the park’s appeal to top-tier businesses seeking a forward-thinking environment.
What specific security measures have been implemented to ensure the safety of businesses within North Point?
At North Point Ballito, we’ve taken a proactive and holistic approach to safeguarding our tenants, combining cutting-edge technology with physical infrastructure and active community involvement.
We’ve made significant investments in leading security technology. This includes an under-dug perimeter fence with 14-strand electrical reinforcement, creating a formidable barrier against intrusion. FLIR (Forward Looking Infrared) thermal imaging and motion detection enable us to identify and respond to potential threats swiftly. An on-site monitoring centre is backed by an off-site monitoring partner to provide additional backup and response capabilities.
The North Point Ballito management association, comprised of investors and tenants, plays an active role in security matters. Regular communication, feedback, and collaboration ensure that security protocols remain effective and responsive to evolving needs.
What impact has North Point had on both the business park and the surrounding community?
North Point Ballito has engaged with local community leaders, businesses, the municipality, and other key stakeholders to build trust and cooperation. Since development began, we have provided a range of employment opportunities, and these and many other opportunities are emerging as more investors embark on top structure and commence operations.
The addition of a 600-home residential component means the park has naturally adopted a more mixed-use character, blending commercial and residential spaces to offer unique opportunities within our commercial component. We believe this will positively shape how the park contributes to the vibrancy and appeal of the area, making it an even more desirable place to live, work and invest.
Looking ahead, what key developments should we look out for?
In the next five to 10 years, North Point Ballito aims to become a thriving, mixed-use estate that adds value to businesses, their staff, residents, and visitors.
A number of sites have broken ground recently, so look out for some exciting facilities to appear in the coming months. Be sure to visit the Fresh Flowers, North Store and Ultra Liquors outlets to see the shopping and services they’re bringing to Ballito and Salt Rock, with several more coming on stream soon.
What sets North Point Ballito apart from other business parks in the region?
Fourteen hectares of the business park are dedicated to green and indigenous space, encouraging the return of flora and fauna. We have invested extensively in the provision of bulk water, power and sewage services, as well as in quality road infrastructure for a smooth flow of traffic within the park.
Our gatehouse was designed to reflect our ethos, balancing technology, ease of access, security and architectural appeal. Landscaping, pedestrian walkways, ClearVu fencing and consistent architecture are designed to make the park appealing to everyone who lives, works and visits North Point Ballito.
How is North Point Ballito contributing to the economic growth of Ballito?
North Point Ballito has already attracted over two billion rand in investment, and we’re excited by the park’s potential to become a catalyst for growth on the North Coast, driven by the entrepreneurs and enterprises that call it home.
We’ve created a space that’s designed to be a destination, attractive to businesses and also to the people who make them grow. By bringing in a diverse range of companies, we’re injecting fresh energy and innovation into the Ballito economy.
Could North Point be a whole new community making its mark on the map and in town?
With the first residents taking possession of their homes this month, we expect North Point Ballito to emerge as a unique community that offers leading-edge providers in logistics, warehousing, technology and light industry, with a valuable offering of wholesale, retail and consumer services. We’re proud of the new precinct and business park that is emerging. We’re grateful to the investors who have embraced our vision and partnered with us to make North Point Ballito the success it is today.
