A New City Takes Shape in Shongweni

The transformation of Durban’s Outer West is no longer an idea on a blueprint; it’s happening on the ground.

Westown, positioned between Shongweni and Hillcrest, is emerging as a mixed-use commercial and industrial hub that’s redefining how businesses connect, trade, and thrive in KwaZulu-Natal.

Dubbed the “New City of the West”, Westown is spearheaded by the Fundamentum Property Group in partnership with the eThekwini Municipality. The flagship Westown Square, a 50,000 m² lifestyle and retail destination valued at R1.5 billion, opened earlier this year, setting in motion over R14 billion in further investment across the next decade.

For business owners and logistics operators, this means one thing: a purpose-built ecosystem designed for commerce, industry, and accessibility.

“We’re not just seeing another shopping precinct; we’re seeing the start of a new business city,” says Tyler Guise-Brown, ANVIL’s area specialist for Hammarsdale, Pinetown, Hillcrest, and Shongweni. “The momentum we’re tracking shows serious interest from national brands and manufacturers who want to secure their space before supply tightens.”

Why Westown Matters for Modern Businesses

According to our article, The Rise of Mixed-Use Precincts: Future-Proofing South African Cities, mixed-use nodes are becoming South Africa’s economic heartbeat. These developments unite retail, commercial, and industrial activity within a single, managed precinct. This allows for delivering operational efficiency, sustainability, and long-term asset value.

Westown is a living example of this shift.

Strategic Advantages for Business

• Prime Location: Between Durban and Pietermaritzburg, serving as a new midpoint similar to Midrand in Gauteng.
• Mixed-Use Synergy: Combines shopping, logistics, and professional services within a single urban node.
• Infrastructure Investment: Roads, bridges, and utilities co-funded by the private sector and municipality.
• Future-Ready Planning: Energy efficiency, security, and sustainability built into the master plan.

For occupiers evaluating industrial property in Shongweni or commercial offices in Westown, this model offers both scalability and reputation value, two decisive factors for companies planning expansion into 2026 and beyond.

Industrial & Logistics: Durban’s Next Big Growth Engine

While the retail portion has made headlines, the industrial precinct is the long-term catalyst for business investment. Developers are already engaging tenants in the 2,000 m²–5,000 m² bracket, ideal for light manufacturing, distribution, or regional warehousing. For larger users (5,000 m²+), early commitment in industrial property in Westown can even influence the sequencing of development.

Industrial Park Highlights

• Flexible Unit Configurations: Tailored to operational requirements.
• Proximity to N3 and M13: Seamless freight access to Durban Harbour and inland routes.
• Green Design Principles: Lower energy usage, efficient stormwater systems, and natural landscaping.
• Ample Yard and Circulation Space: Engineered for truck manoeuvrability and container storage.

“If you’re in logistics or light manufacturing, the Outer West is where growth is heading,” Tyler explains. “The new road infrastructure and the scale of investment in Shongweni are already influencing how clients plan their long-term logistics networks.”

Office and Retail Spaces with Visibility and Balance

Beyond industrial activity, Westown is cultivating a modern commercial environment where office users, service providers, and retail tenants can thrive together.

Westown Square anchors the area as a lifestyle destination, while upcoming office parks and mixed-use business precincts will provide flexible spaces suited for hybrid teams and regional headquarters.

Companies seeking office space to rent in Shongweni will benefit from:

• Walkable access to retail and dining amenities.
• Managed precinct security and maintenance.
• Premium visibility from Kassier Road and new arterial connections.

This interconnectedness supports employee satisfaction, client convenience, and brand exposure. These are factors that elevate total return on occupancy.

Infrastructure: The Foundation of Long-Term Value

Infrastructure is the lifeblood of Westown’s success. Construction of the first new bridge over the N13 will open to traffic in November, with a second bridge scheduled for completion in 2026.

The Kassier Road upgrades, extending from Alverstone to Old Main Road, are set to begin mid-2026, further strengthening connectivity.

As Carlos Correia, CEO of Fundamentum Property Group, notes:

“Through our funding of Westown, we’re not just building structures, we’re creating vibrant ecosystems where families thrive, businesses flourish, and neighbourhoods connect.”

This commitment reinforces Westown’s credibility as a long-term investment node rather than a speculative project.

What Makes Durban Outer West Property a Smart Business Decision

With construction momentum underway, early entrants can still negotiate tailored lease terms or design-build options before industrial land opportunities in Westown become limited.

Frequently Asked Questions: Westown & Shongweni

1. Where is Westown located?

Along Kassier Road in Shongweni, connecting Hillcrest to the N3 corridor west of Durban.

2. What property types are on offer?

Retail (Westown Square), modern office suites, and planned warehouse and logistics facilities.

3. When will industrial units be ready?

The first developments are targeted for 2026–2027, with early design input available now.

4. What warehouse sizes can be developed?

From 2 000 m² to 5 000 m², with larger custom options for anchor tenants.

5. Is access to major highways convenient?

Yes. Upgraded links to the N3 and M13 ensure efficient transport logistics.

6. Who is driving the development?

The Fundamentum Property Group, in partnership with eThekwini Municipality.

7. What amenities exist for staff and visitors?

Retail, dining, and leisure facilities at Westown Square, plus landscaped open spaces.

8. Are sustainability features included?

Yes, green design, natural water systems, and solar-ready infrastructure.

9. What kind of businesses are ideal for Westown?

Retail anchors, logistics firms, light manufacturers, and regional corporate offices.

10. How can I secure space?

Contact Tyler at ANVIL Property Smith to discuss available opportunities or pre-leasing.

Expert Insight: Planning Ahead Pays Off

“Businesses that start their site selection early will have the biggest advantage,” says Tyler. “Developers are still shaping phases, meaning we can align design, yard access, and visibility with your operational goals.”

ANVIL Property Smith’s Durban team works closely with developers and investors to match clients with fit-for-purpose spaces across the Outer West corridor, from Hammarsdale and Pinetown to Shongweni and Hillcrest.

To view available properties or speak with a local expert, contact us at Anvil Property Smith.

About ANVIL Property Smith

ANVIL Property Smith is a leading South African commercial and industrial property brokerage with a national footprint. Our teams combine local market insight with hands-on experience to help businesses lease, buy, or sell space that fits their operational goals.

With specialists active across South Africa, we provide expert guidance on new developments such as Westown and other strategic logistics nodes nationwide.

To view available properties or speak with a local expert, contact us at Anvil Property Smith.