Much has been said about the construction of Westown Square and the roads that support it, but critical to ensuring its successful opening is the Westown Square on-site nursery.
From green hills, waterfalls and nature trails to equestrian sports, local food and crafts; the Outer West is defined by adventure, history and the outdoors. Adding to this offering, Westown has been designed to reflect this character with a carefully considered landscaping programme.
“Shongweni’s equestrian and agricultural nature, the surrounding Valley of 1000 Hills and the rich history of the area were all determining factors in our choice of flora, says Ignes de Beer from Uys & White Landscape Artists. “The local weather conditions and seasonal changes so particular to the area were equally important for our plant planning.”
With this in mind, the 286 trees to be planted at Westown Square have already been brought to the newly established site nursery, allowing them to climatize and be cared for under the watchful eyes of horticulturalists Samukelo Sibaya and Chris Stonier from landscaping service provider FSG.
“Because the trees have been sourced specifically throughout South Africa, it is important to have them on-site at least one season ahead of being planted in their final position giving them a chance to establish in their new environment,” explained Sibaya.
Plants for All Seasons
While much of the planting will be indigenous exotic trees introduced to the area many years ago now an integral part of what makes Shongweni, what it is. “To mimic the autumnal shades of existing varietals, we are planting statement trees like the London Plain and Pin Oak.” de Beer says.
Lending themselves to the colder winters and cooler spring /summers, and because citrus and grapes are already being successfully cultivated in the region, citrus orchards and vineyards (table-grape varietals) are being introduced Westown Square. “All 143 citrus trees are currently being nurtured by Sam and his team at our Westown nursery,” noted de Beer.
Striking And Purposeful
Westown Square, has been designed to enhance the visitor experience at every level, with pedestrians taking priority. Starting from the entrance, down Westown Boulevard, an avenue of Feather Duster trees and Citrus orchards, provide a welcome to shoppers, while mobile planters on rollers, with citrus trees will add a splash of colour to the Town Square at the centre of the precinct. All outdoor parking and walkways are under pergolas of vines and colourful creepers.
“We are using landscaping as a statement piece for the main entrance, with a striking 8m creeper-covered arch that leads into a boulevard of London Plain and (edible) Olive Trees,” de Beer explained.
The Amphitheatre and Children’s play area are key features of Westown Square, and here London Plains, Feather Duster trees and creeping roses of a variety of colours will bring life to the space and accommodate winter sun and summer shade. “The Rose Arbor sits alongside a play area for children 3 years and up making it a perfect venue for children’s parties,” explained de Beer.
The Barn on The Square is the ‘spatial heart’ of Westown Square and seeks to reinstate the essence of the community market experience as an exciting and authentically local retail space where people can gather to connect, meet, relax and enjoy themselves. A key feature of The Barn is the central atrium which will include half-wine barrels planted with citrus trees, creating the look of an orchard.
Part Of The Whole
The open, people-centric character of Westown extends beyond the shopping environment of Westown Square, with cycling lanes and pavements ensuring people can freely move on all Westown’s streets.
And in a final nod to the local character of Shongweni, Westown includes The Horse Paddock, a designated paddock area opposite Westown Square where local riders and residents tie up their horses, in a safe and managed space and go about their business and pleasure in Westown Square.