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As the multitude of walkers – both adults and children, and many with dogs in tow – took to the five-kilometre route of the Anelda Jacobs fundraising walk on Friday 14 May, Michelle Witts-Hewinson gave us the opportunity to have a first-hand look-see of the sprawling Kingswood Estate.
With a running commentary coming thick and fast, Michelle pointed out the eclectic variety of abodes occupied by current Kingswood locals, and those under construction by prospective residents, who are arriving from all over South Africa.
This enlightening lesson on architecture was interspersed with inner-circle secrets of the golf course’s most challenging holes, and of nooks and crannies known only to the lucky few who took full advantage of Kingswood living during lockdown.
Heading first to the estate’s fourth phase, Michelle explained that the highlight of the happy walkers’ route was sure to be its most elevated section on the southernmost side of the estate.
‘The walkers’ experience of our home turf should culminate there, with the most extensive and spectacular mountain views.’
In the most recent Kingswood BUZZard newsletter, Stephen Murray of Pam Golding Properties updated readers on progress, explaining that civil and electrical services in Phase 4 would be completed by February. George Municipality has recently approved construction plans of the entrance gate.
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Of the 155 sites on offer, 115 have now been sold, leaving just 40 for the taking, a majority (26 out of 40) of those being the bigger stands that measure from 1,300 square metres to 3,000 square metres. Several buyers have already started conceptually designing their homes, and residents may see life at new houses on the Ridge, as this phase is called, from as early as the last quarter of 2021.
Michelle remembers her good fortune when, 18 years ago, she and her husband Jonathan selected a north-facing plot that didn’t slope. Soon afterwards, their comfortable and sunny home was constructed. Having closely followed the estate’s progress as holiday residents for the past 14 years, the Witts-Hewinsons moved down from Joburg – for good – two years ago.
Michelle, who ensures that she gets to play a round of golf twice a week, bubbles with enthusiasm over plans for the new clubhouse. After sharing information about the unique arrangement that allowed home owners to acquire the course and assets, we checked out the site where building of this facility will start as soon as budgets have been approved.
‘The current driving range is perfectly situated for our new clubhouse, which will function optimally as an entertainment and leisure hub for residents and members.’ The gatehouse, which now houses the pro shop, offices and restaurant, will then serve as a business centre at Kingswood’s main entrance.
The new clubhouse will face north with the best view of the mountains, and the course will start on the par-three behind the clubhouse. ‘This will ensure that there are no delays when starting off – a welcome change.’
Clearly a competent golfer, Michelle regards the Kingswood golf course as ‘challenging’.
As far as the estate’s hiking trail is concerned, Jonathan uses it extensively, and has offered some valuable insights into subtle changes to ensure that walking at Kingswood is an extremely pleasant experience.
