Commercial & Industrial Property Guide: Bedfordview
Once a small mining village, Bedfordview has grown into one of Gauteng’s most strategically placed commercial and light industrial zones. Originally part of the historic Germiston gold mining belt, the area now blends affluence, accessibility, and business convenience. With tree-lined streets and proximity to key routes, Bedfordview is particularly appealing for corporates, professionals, and logistics firms seeking accessible office space, warehousing, or showroom-type facilities in the East Rand.
Today, it’s known for a mix of upscale residential suburbs and a vibrant business sector that leans more towards commercial offices and logistics hubs rather than heavy industry.
Business Landscape
Bedfordview is primarily zoned for business and commercial rather than heavy industry, making it ideal for:
- Corporate head offices
- Light warehousing and logistics
- Professional services firms (legal, financial, consulting)
- Showroom-type businesses
Several prominent businesses operate in this area, including Absa Regional Offices, Würth South Africa, and international logistics providers. The area also supports many SMMEs and satellite branches of larger enterprises, drawn by its central location and strong client accessibility.
Business parks like Bedford Park and Eastgate Office Park cater to high-end office tenants, while industrial-type businesses find value in the peripheries near Germiston and Meadowdale.
Location & Accessibility
One of Bedfordview’s biggest advantages is connectivity. It sits at the intersection of major highways including:
- N3 (Johannesburg – Durban corridor)
- R24 (link to OR Tambo International Airport)
- N12 (Johannesburg to Witbank)
From Bedfordview:
- OR Tambo International Airport is just 10 minutes away via the R24.
- Johannesburg CBD is about 15 minutes west.
- Sandton and Midrand are reachable in 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Nearby commercial districts include Meadowdale, Germiston, and Isando, all within easy reach. The Gautrain doesn’t currently serve Bedfordview directly, but expansion proposals may bring future accessibility enhancements.
Lifestyle and Staff Convenience
Employees and executives based in Bedfordview enjoy access to a range of lifestyle perks, including:
- Eastgate Shopping Centre and Bedford Centre - both offering supermarkets, eateries, banks, and gyms.
- Popular restaurants like Tashas, Pigalle, and News Café for business lunches or after-work meetups.
- Schools such as St Benedict’s College and Reddam House Bedfordview for staff with families.
- Medical services including Life Bedford Gardens Hospital.
Additionally, coworking and networking opportunities exist at shared spaces and executive business lounges in the area’s office parks.
Infrastructure & Amenities
- Power & Utilities: Bedfordview benefits from strong grid infrastructure, though like the rest of Gauteng, backup power (generators or solar) is often a necessity.
- Water: Stable municipal supply via Ekurhuleni Municipality.
- Telecoms: High-speed fibre available through major providers in most office and business parks.
- Logistics Support: Its proximity to major arterial roads makes Bedfordview a strong node for last-mile distribution and warehousing, serving businesses that cater to Johannesburg and the East Rand.
Commercial/Industrial Property Trends
While Bedfordview is more commercially zoned, it supports a limited amount of light industrial and warehouse-style properties, particularly on its edges closer to Meadowdale and Germiston.
- Commercial office rentals in Bedfordview: Range between R110 – R145/m², depending on location and finish.
- Warehouse rentals in Bedfordview: Average R65/m², with smaller nodes seeing slightly higher rates.
- Vacancy rate: Below 5% as of Q2 2024, reflecting sustained demand for well-located, flexible-use space.
Most available properties include:
- A-grade office space with fibre, access control, and backup power
- Showroom/retail hybrid spaces with storage
- Light industrial units for last-mile delivery or logistics
Zoning & Development
Zoning in Bedfordview is mostly Business 1 and Business 2, permitting:
- Offices
- Shops
- Light warehousing
- Showrooms
No heavy industrial zoning is permitted directly within Bedfordview’s core. However, ongoing densification and rezoning applications are opening up new small commercial and mixed-use opportunities.
Notable developments include:
- Eastgate Extension – additional retail and office space
- Proposed Gautrain expansion corridor (long-term)
- Ongoing refurbishments in business parks adapting older stock to flexible, hybrid office/logistics needs
Advantages of Operating in Bedfordview
Here’s why business owners continue to choose Bedfordview:
- Unrivalled Access – Right on the N3, R24, and N12.
- Executive Appeal – Clean, secure, and upmarket environment.
- Logistics-Friendly – Ideal for high-access light distribution or hybrid warehousing.
- Lifestyle Benefits – Staff amenities, shopping, dining, and schools.
- Stable Market – High demand keeps vacancy rates low.
Challenges or Considerations
No area is without its trade-offs. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Limited industrial zoning – Not suitable for heavy industry or manufacturing.
- Traffic congestion – Peak hours can be challenging, especially near Eastgate.
- Premium pricing – Commercial properties are priced slightly higher than those in nearby zones, such as Germiston or Meadowdale.
Bedfordview strikes a rare balance, offering big-city access with a professional suburban charm. Whether you’re looking for high-end offices, a light warehousing solution, or a strategic hybrid location, Bedfordview delivers.
To view available properties in Bedfordview or speak with a local expert, contact us at Anvil Property Smith.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bedfordview
What types of commercial and industrial properties are available in Bedfordview?
Bedfordview primarily offers commercial offices, showroom spaces, and light warehousing units. Heavy industrial facilities are more prevalent in adjacent areas, such as Germiston.
What’s the average rental rate for commercial offices in Bedfordview?
Office rentals generally range between R110 – R145/m², depending on location, security, and facilities.
Are there warehouse or light industrial properties available in Bedfordview?
Yes, though in limited supply. Warehouse rentals average R65/m², often found on the outskirts bordering Germiston and Meadowdale.
Is Bedfordview suitable for logistics operations?
Yes - its direct access to the N3, N12, and R24 makes it ideal for last-mile logistics and regional distribution.
What infrastructure supports business operations in Bedfordview?
The area is serviced by strong road infrastructure, high-speed fibre, reliable utilities, and professional business parks.
Are there coworking or networking spaces in Bedfordview?
Yes, shared office spaces and meeting venues are available, particularly within Bedfordview Office Park and Eastgate Tower.
What is the business environment like in Bedfordview?
It’s professional and well-established, with a mix of corporates, SMEs, and logistics providers operating harmoniously.
Are there plans for future development in Bedfordview?
Yes - expansions to retail and office parks, along with long-term transport proposals like the Gautrain extension, may increase property value and accessibility.
How close is Bedfordview to OR Tambo International Airport?
Approximately 10 minutes via the R24 highway, making it ideal for businesses with airfreight or travel needs.
Who can I speak to about leasing or buying property in Bedfordview?
Our expert brokers at Anvil Property Smith can help you find the right space. Contact us directly for tailored advice.
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