Rivonia Boulevard and surrounds is fast becoming hot-investment grounds in what Ward 106 Councillor Stephen Moore dubbed as the ‘gateway to Sandton’.

New developments can be seen along the Rivonia main roads in both the residential and commercial sectors. This past year has also seen large chain outlets stretching its reach within the Rivonia and surrounding areas. Recently, Rivonia Village Shopping Centre which is nestled along the Rivonia Boulevard strip celebrated the grand opening of the new Checkers supermarket on its premises. Rivonia Village Centre Manager Candace Kistasamy said the new store is just the beginning of the developments shoppers can look forward to. “Rivonia Boulevard has always been an executive area for both the private and commercial sectors.

At Rivonia Village Shopping Centre, there has been such a great demand for retail space that we had to upgrade our premises and allow more business to reap the benefits of investing in the area. On behalf of my team, I would like to congratulate Checkers and welcome them to the Rivonia Village family,” she added. Ward Councillor for Rivonia and surrounds, Stephen Moore said he was happy to see economic development in the area. ”It is great to see the resurgence and the significant upgrade within the Rivonia business district. The past year has seen more investments in property, upgrades to commercial buildings and centres-all in all; this translates to the restoration of Rivonia as the commercial hub it once was. We have also noted a steady decline in crime as compared to other parts of Johannesburg and this is also a contributing factor to the investment in the area,” he said.

Councillor Moore further added that the retail, residential and private sector can also look forward to improved roads and infrastructure. “We are currently in talks to improve infrastructure and intersection traffic flows which will enhance access to the various office parks and amenities throughout Rivonia. The main plan is to further enhance the area and provide a total retail and commercial hub for all who enter the Rivonia and surrounding areas,” he said. Since the beginning of 2013 more modern individual buildings have been developed for residential purposes along the Rivonia main road. Older buildings and office parks have also undergone refurbishment. The Rivonia district has also seen a growing demand for office space - mostly from private and medium-sized businesses. As these businesses grow, they will require more space thus increasing investment within the area which will ultimately create more jobs and opportunities for the country’s young professionals.