Some might remember Broadacres as undeveloped farmland but the area has mirrored the growth and development of the Fourways node.
About the area
As one of the eight suburbs of Fourways, Broadacres has seen as much growth and developments in the last few years as the Fourways node itself.
Some residents remember this area as having a rustic, farm look with few patches of houses and shopping centres when compared to what it is now. Some even say you were either a housewife enjoying the peace and quiet or you worked from home, probably because it is close to Chartwell, a “horsey” neighbourhood.
Since then, a lot has changed, with very little, if any, available land for development. The area is lined up with residential and commercial buildings and the main Cedar Road that runs through the suburb is a major source of traffic pain for motorists and residents alike.
A plus for this suburb is that it is close to Lanseria International Airport and to areas such as Muldersdrift, Magaliesburg and Hartbeespoort.
“Broadacres is a pleasant, quiet suburb that is perfect for young and growing families,” says resident Natasha Nhekairo.
Having moved into the area six years ago, Nhekairo has nothing but praise for the suburb, particularly the fact that since she and her parents moved to Broadacres, they have only heard of a few crime incidences.
She notes that people look for secure homes and lifestyle estates which seem to be a preference for many buyers. They want to be able to walk, run and watch their children ride their bicycles and play with each other without worry.
Of course, for those with children, the abundance of crèches and schools is a major attraction as is the Broadacres Lifestyle Centre offering convenience with just about everything one needs. Retirees wanting a change of scenery simply have to sell and move into the upmarket Evergreen Lifestyle Village.
Broadacres boasts a good balance of the tranquility of country living and the convenience of living in the city.
Natasha Nhekairo, resident.
Best in Food:
- Mugg & Bean: a popular spot for the whole family
- Buitengeluk: for breakfast or afternoon tea
- Outer Limits restaurant and cocktail bar: for cocktails and drinks
- Grey Wolf Spur: for an evening with the family
- Give the Prime Grill & Butchery at Cedar Square a try for fine dining
Nearby medical facilities:
- Life Fourways Hospital
- Mediclinic Morningside
- Netcare Olivedale Hospital
- Mediclinic Sandton
- Netcare Sunninghill Hospital
Best in schools:
- Broadacres Academy & Farm Nursery School
- Chartall Business College
- Chartwell House Montessori Eco School
- Dainfern College
- Unity College
This article originally appeared in Neighbourhood, Sunday Times.
Take a spectacular journey through the Fourways neighbourhood here:
