Find out about these peaceful residential suburbs in Durban North.
About the area
Glen Anil and Glenashley are among the oldest suburbs in Durban North and feature a wide variety of older homes, many of which have been modernised.
Although there are no Lightstone statistics available for Glenashley (the suburb has been incorporated into Durban North for statistical purposes), sales in neighbouring Glen Anil prove the area remains a highly sought-after place to live. This, despite the fact that according to the stats, the area is home to a mere 1,529 adults.
Sales have been consistency good although there have been reports of stock shortages which may have affected the figures. In 2014 a total of 44 freehold homes were sold for a median price of R1,6m. Last year this number dropped to 33 sales, however, the average selling price increased significantly to R2,05m.
Sectional title developments form a small part of the suburb and as such those sales figures are not quite so impressive. That said, seven units were sold in 2014 for a median price of R1,5m. Only two units changed hands last year, for an average price of R1,62m.
Part of the suburb’s attraction has to be its location. Close to Umhlanga, La Lucia and the commercial centres which have mushroomed in the area, it is also close to some of Durban’s top schools. Shopping needs are taken care of by the nearby La Lucia Mall and Gateway Theatre of Shopping. It’s also an ideal location for those who want to take advantage of Durban’s gorgeous beaches. North Beach is literally just around the corner, while Umhlanga and the quieter North Coast beaches are a relatively short drive away.
Although properties situated on the main roads may be more vulnerable to noise pollution, both Glen Anil and Glenashley are regarded as quiet suburbs and a place where residents can go home to a little peace and tranquillity.
Top schools:
- Virginia Preparatory School
- Glenashley Preparatory School
- Northlands Girls’ High School
- Northwood School
- Our Lady of Fatima Dominican Convent School
Hospitals and medical centres:
- Durban North Children’s Medical Centre
- Durban North Medical Centre
- Homeopathic and Chiropractic Clinic
- Ethekwini Hospital and Heart Centre
Things to do in Durban North:
- The Food Market: Every last Saturday of the month for goat’s milk cheese, organic produce, home-baked cakes and jams.
- Golden Hours Family Market: Held every Sunday, this family market offers a wide variety of home-made foodstuffs, as well as pottery and clothing.
- The Japanese Gardens: This well-loved Durban park offers a number of footpaths that showcase the bamboo reeds and Japanese foliage on display. An ideal location for a family picnic.
This article originally appeared in Neighbourhood, Sunday Times.
