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UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA
SPATIAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2030
Editors | Ané Wheeler and Ina Liebenberg
TABLE OF CONTENTS
DEVELOPMENT OUTLINE
FOREWORD INTRODUCTION
OBJECTIVES
KEY CONTRIBUTORS
South African Smart Cities Framework
National Development Plan 2030
Tshwane Vision 2055
Tshwane Regional Spatial Development Framework 2018
Draft Tshwane Land Use Scheme 2021
Draft Hatfield Precinct Plan 2021
UP as an anchor institution
Tshwane Transport Plan: public transport
Tshwane Transport Plan: non-motorised routes
UP mobility
The academic project
UP as a research-intensive university
The reimagined university
Spatial data
CAMPUS PLANS
Hatfield and South Campuses
Hatfield corridor
Hillcrest Campus
Groenkloof Campus
Prinshof Campus
Onderstepoort Campus
Mamelodi Campus
DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL
INTERVENTION STRATEGIES
Key elements and principles
Placemaking
Built form
Movement networks
CAMPUS PRECINCT PLANS
Hatfield and South Campuses
Hatfield corridor
Hillcrest Campus
Groenkloof Campus
Prinshof Campus
Onderstepoort Campus
Mamelodi Campus
IMPLEMENTATION PLANS
PROJECTS AND INITIATIVES
Introduction
Master planning
Compliance and renewal
Learning spaces
Digitisation
Space optimisation
ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
Transport
Energy
Water
Waste
Landscape
HERITAGE CONSERVATION AND DEFERRED MAINTENANCE
INFRASTRUCTURE AND BULK SERVICES
CONCLUSION
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
BIBLIOGRAPHY
01 DEVELOPMENT OUTLINE
FOREWORD
Dear friends of the University of Pretoria,
It is with great pleasure that I introduce the University of Pretoria’s (UP) Spatial Development Plan (SDP). This comprehensive blueprint for UP’s physical growth and transformation demonstrates our institution’s unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation and the pursuit of knowledge. The future that we envision for our much-loved University aligns seamlessly with our academic aspirations, supporting a dynamic and inspiring environment for all who study, work and engage with us.
The UP community has long been dedicated to fostering a caring and intellectually stimulating atmosphere. This plan is a testament to our dedication to this vision. By ensuring that our physical infrastructure is equivalent to our academic ambitions, we are able to create the conditions for innovative learning, groundbreaking research and a vibrant campus life.
In formulating this plan, we acknowledged the profound impact that the university environment has on the experiences of our students, faculty, staff and visitors. As such, the SDP seeks to enhance the physical attributes of our campus, providing accessible and sustainable facilities that encourage collaboration, creativity and community.
Our commitment to sustainability is also a fundamental principle of the SDP. We are acutely aware of our responsibilities to the environment and future generations. The development of green spaces, energyefficient buildings and sustainable infrastructure mirrors our dedication to being stewards of the planet, while providing a model for responsible development to the broader community.
In envisioning this plan, we consulted extensively with members of the UP community as well as external stakeholders, gathering valuable insights and feedback to ensure that the SDP reflects a collective vision for our institution’s future.
While we look forward to the transformative journey ahead, it is essential to remember that a plan of this nature is not only about bricks and mortar, but about the people who inhabit these spaces. The SDP aims to enhance the experiences, opportunities and sense of belonging of every member of our community.
This forward-thinking plan is an expression of our shared ambition to elevate UP to new heights of academic excellence and societal impact. Together, we will construct an environment that inspires, empowers, and supports the dreams and ambitions of all who call the University of Pretoria their academic home.
I extend my deepest gratitude to those who have contributed to the development of the SDP, and look forward to our collective efforts to bring it to fruition. The future of UP is bright, and we are excited to embark on this journey together.
Sincerely,
Sandile Mthiyane Chief Operating Officer, University of Pretoria
INTRODUCTION
The SDP provides strategic direction for the future physical development of the University of Pretoria. Building on the Spatial Development Plan 2020 – 2025 (adopted in 2019), the 2030 plan is underpinned by the University’s vision of becoming “a leading research‐intensive university in Africa, recognised internationally for its quality, relevance and impact, and for developing people, creating knowledge and making a difference locally and globally”.
SDP 2030 is aligned with UP’s strategic goals, which are to:
• enhance access and successful student learning;
• strengthen the University’s research and international profile;
• foster and sustain a transformed, inclusive, and equitable University community;
• optimise resources and enhance institutional sustainability; and
• strengthen UP’s social responsiveness and impact on society.
Inspired by its vision, the University continues to contribute significantly to society through excellence in knowledge creation, impactful and relevant research, high-quality academic programmes, innovative teaching and learning, and social responsiveness and engagement. UP enjoys a high reputation for the quality of both its professional and research-orientated academic programmes. Its reputation is reflected in its rising international profile, as evidenced by its strong showing in the university ranking systems – which place UP among the top 1.9% of universities in the world –and by the growing number of areas in which the University has achieved global excellence.
The development of students as a skilled workforce and critical citizenry is a primary means of assessing the University’s impact on economic growth and competitiveness, socio-economic inequalities and the wellbeing of society. The most recent statistics released by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) confirm that UP remains one of the largest producers of graduates in a wide range of fields, such as engineering, financial sciences and health sciences.
The University’s vision sets it on a path to being at the leading edge of the fourth industrial revolution (4IR), and future scientific and industrial revolutions. UP has established several interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary research platforms (such as Innovation Africa @UP, Future Africa, the Javett-UP Art Centre and Engineering 4.0) to unlock the potential of the 4IR for Africa. Major research breakthroughs have been made in several areas, demonstrating not only the quality of the research and the calibre of academics at UP but also that the research matters, transforms lives and communities, and makes a meaningful contribution to Africa and the world.
The preceding achievements have been made possible by the provision of the requisite infrastructure. This includes state-of-the-art learning and research facilities (such as lecture halls, laboratories, libraries, research platforms, workshops, museums and conference facilities); the expansion of student residences; structured parking; support facilities (including offices, shops and restaurants); and sports facilities.
STUDENTS
ACADEMIC STUDY PROGRAMMES 1213 54466 613
70.9%
ACADEMIC STAFF
WITH P h D s
ACADEMIC DEPARTMENTS
OBJECTIVES
SDP 2030 proposes various intervention strategies that inform UP’s physical infrastructure development, thus supporting the University as it intensifies its impact on society, strengthens its research enterprise, pursues innovative pedagogical practices, deepens inclusivity and transformation, heightens sustainability, and successfully navigates the 4IR. Overall, the plan seeks to position UP for its next stage of development, and creates a direct link between its vision and strategic goals and its physical environment. The plan aims to interrogate development potential by analysing precinct plans, land use and the development corridors, and expand on specific projects and initiatives.
SDP 2030 embraces the University’s commitment to a sustainable future, as elucidated in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and deliberates on UP sustainability and environmental planning. To achieve systemic sustainability, the plan needs an adaptive strategy that ensures the development of an increasingly robust and supportive environment. As such, SDP 2030 includes the following implementation strategies: infrastructure and bulk services plans, the prioritisation of critical maintenance, heritage conservation of buildings, sustainability and environmental planning, and commercial development opportunities.
The plan seeks to strengthen and reinforce UP’s position as a place of academic excellence, student success, research and innovation. It also aims to accommodate the continued expansion of the student body and advancements in teaching (such as the development of a hybrid teaching model) and research (for example, interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary research). In recognition of the need to improve student life at UP, the plan supports the student experience (residence, commuting and distance education), and reflects an understanding that a dynamic campus environment enhances the overall student experience and increases student retention. It promotes student success through dignified and quality learning spaces, living spaces and social spaces.
The emphasis for the foreseeable future is predominantly on continued stewardship and the renewal of existing infrastructure. The plan’s primary goal is to support the realisation of UP’s strategic goals. The rate at which programmes, technology and student cultures change must be taken into account so that the University is able to maintain its standing. The focus of new buildings should be on sustainable, high-quality architectural design and construction. Adaptability and resilience are critical to support changing needs and an evolving curriculum.
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Strategic plan: Destination 2026 & Beyond
KEY CONTRIBUTORS
SPATIAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2030
EXTERNAL CONTRIBUTORS
• SA Smart Cities Framework
• National Development Plan 2030
• Tshwane Vision 2055
• Tshwane Regional SDF 2018
• Draft Tshwane Land Use Scheme 2021
• Draft Hatfield Precinct Plan 2021
• Tshwane Transport Plan 2015
• DHET: University MacroInfrastructure Framework 2021 TECHNOLOGY
Capital plan 10-year campus plan 30-year context
INTERNAL CONTRIBUTORS
• The academic project
• Reimagining the future university
• Hybrid teaching models
• Enhancing the campus experience
• Working-hour policy
• Transport and parking analysis
• Space utilisation analysis
• Infrastructure and bulk services
• Master plans
• Sustainability
• Entrepreneurial university
Photo credit | Aerial views of Hatfield Campus
SOUTH AFRICAN SMART CITIES FRAMEWORK
In a smart city, information is sourced and integrated from information and communications technology (ICT) linked to the internet of things (IoT) and other evolving networks to improve service delivery, optimise user interaction and operations, and improve response time to challenges within the interactive area covered.
In Tshwane Vision 2055, the transformation of the city into a smart city as a vital part of a “smart” province is identified as an important outcome of this framework to create economic sustainability. The document further identifies a strategy for growth and change as capitalising on the city’s extensive intellectual and innovation capacity – that is the Innovation Hub, Science and Technology Park, the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), and UP – as a potential driver to unlock significant regional economic growth.
The South African Smart Cities Framework was produced by the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (DCoG) in 2021. It identifies key requirements to realise the opportunities presented by the presence and implementation of the technology employed by smart cities and how it relates to the Global South, specifically to the South African context.
In the context of the environs and users of UP and this SDP, the implementation of smart city principles will promote the development of a connected urban area where users engage with various electronic methods and sensors that allow data to be harvested for managing assets, utilities, resources and services in order to achieve greater efficiency and cost-effectiveness of use.
The following key considerations were identified in the DCoG framework with regard to the implementation of smart technology in the South African context by urban authorities to align with municipal functions, interventions and strategies:
• Interaction with the ICT network must be accessible to all in basic form, and designers of the systems must ensure inclusivity of use.
• Technology must be used as an enabler to provide greater interaction and access to communal services for all users, from the technologically adept to those with limited access to technology.
• ICT must be user-centric and be an enabler for citizens to create greater equity in the urban ecosystem, not as a driver for commercial gain.
• Where partnerships for implementation are created with the private sector or other entities, UP must ensure that all users share similar motivations, values and objectives.
• Care should be taken to avoid intentions to harvest information for commercial use. The systems should always be managed in accordance with equitable objectives.
By employing ICT in this precinct it will make a significant impact on economic development, governance interaction and optimisation, mobility and movement networks, and environmental planning and control. UP could also employ smart technologies to create safer communities by assisting police and law-enforcement agencies with early reporting and detection. Additionally, it can assist with mapping crime hotspots. Through this optimisation, resources can be allocated more effectively for long-term change.
01
SMART MOBILITY
+ MIXED MODAL ACCESS
+ NON-MOTORISED OPTIONS
+ INTEGRATED ICT
SMART LIVING
+ SAFE ENVIRONMENT
+ ACCESS TO HEALTH CARE
+ ACCESS TO SERVICES
SMART PEOPLE
+ 21st-CENTURY EDUCATION
+ EMBRACE CREATIVITY
+ INCLUSIVE SOCIETY
03 02
SMART ECONOMY
+ ENTREPRENEURSHIP
+ PRODUCTIVITY
+ INTERCONNECTEDNESS
04
SMART GOVERNANCE
+ ENABLING SUPPLY AND DEMAND
05
+ TRANSPARENCY AND OPEN DATA
+ ICT AND eGOV 06
SMART ENVIRONMENT
+ GREEN ENERGY
+ GREEN URBAN PLANNING
+ GREEN BUILDINGS
NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2030 TSHWANE VISION 2055
The National Development Plan (NDP) identifies a spatial vision for existing and new urban development based on a series of important aspects:
• containing urban sprawl and promoting the densification of development;
• promoting the creation of high-density, large-scale housing in inner cities on well-located and accessible land;
• transforming existing urban areas with sustainable interventions to ensure a transition to sustainability; and
• focusing new development and urban infrastructure investment on corridors of mass transit and around existing and emergent economic nodes as per the principles of transit-oriented development.
Overarching principles for spatial development:
• spatial justice
• spatial sustainability
• spatial resilience
• spatial quality
• spatial efficiency
The following outcomes have been outlined in Tshwane Vision 2055. The City of Tshwane needs to:
• be a resilient and resource-efficient city;
• have a growing economy that is inclusive, diversified and competitive;
• develop quality infrastructure that supports liveable communities;
• be an equitable city that supports happiness, social cohesion, safety and healthy citizens;
• be an African capital city that promotes excellence and innovative governance solutions; and
• be South Africa’s capital city with active citizens who are engaged, aware of their rights and who present themselves as partners in tackling societal challenges.
Photo credit | Jacek Sopotnicki | Aerial view of central Pretoria
TSHWANE REGIONAL SPATIAL DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 2018
The Regionalised Spatial Development Framework (RSDF) 2018 is a forward-planning tool that the Tshwane municipality uses to guide future developments. According to the RSDF, UP’s campuses fall within Region 2, Region 3 and Region 6.
HATFIELD CAMPUS, SOUTH CAMPUS AND HILLCREST CAMPUS
Hatfield Campus, South Campus, Hillcrest Campus and Persequor Park are all earmarked for educational use for future developments. According to the RSDF, high-density residential and land uses that are supportive of the University and its activities should be accommodated in this precinct. The RSDF also states that preference should be given to high-density student housing developments in the east of Hatfield. Additionally, it has a location principle that states that higher densities will be promoted on larger land parcels and lesser rights to single erven or smaller site assemblies. The aim of this is to encourage developers to assemble larger land parcels for consolidated developments to avoid multiple entrances/ exits that will exacerbate traffic issues, and to minimise the proliferation of small, isolated developments that stand in the way of block/half-block developments.
GROENKLOOF CAMPUS
According to the RSDF, the campus is earmarked for both educational and mixed-use development. Properties around Groenkloof Campus are allocated for developments with mixed-land use. Land uses such as educational, mixed-use, offices and retail are supported. Non-residential land uses are predominant along George Storrar Drive. The campus is surrounded by low-density, medium-density and biodiversity zones.
PRINSHOF CAMPUS
Prinshof Campus is earmarked for mixed-use development, and is surrounded by a mix of land uses allocated for future development in accordance with the RSDF. Land uses such as educational, mixed-use and offices are supported. The campus is surrounded by medium-density residential and low-density residential developments.
ONDERSTEPOORT CAMPUS
Onderstepoort Campus is earmarked for educational use, as per the RSDF. Mixed-land use and industrial use are encouraged in the area surrounding the campus. Medium- and high-density residential development is supported on the southern side of the campus. High-potential agriculture land is located on the north and northeastern sides of the campus.
MAMELODI CAMPUS
Mamelodi Campus is earmarked for educational purposes. Densities supported around the campus range from high- and medium- to lowdensity residential developments. Other promoted land uses in the vicinity are mixed-use and educational. Solomon Mahlangu Drive, which passes the campus on the east, is also earmarked for a future Bus Rapid Transport (BRT) route.
HARTBEESPOORT
KWAMHLANGA
MPUMALANGA
DRAFT TSHWANE LAND USE SCHEME 2021
The Draft Tshwane Land Use Scheme 2021 replaces the Tshwane Town Planning Scheme 2008 (revised 2014). A land use scheme is a planning tool that allows for, or restricts, certain types of land uses in certain geographic areas. It regulates land use and buildings in the Tshwane municipal area.
The Draft Land Use Scheme has retained the zonings as they appeared in the Town Planning Scheme, but has introduced new land uses and definitions. The Draft Land Use Scheme has been through a public participation process, and UP submitted its comments to protect its interests. Once the Draft Land Use Scheme has been adopted, these new land uses and definitions will apply where permissible and will be enforced. All UP properties are affected and are regulated by the Draft Land Use Scheme. Any land development that UP plans to carry out outside its current zoning will be subject to an application process so that the land use complies with the Draft Land Use Scheme.
DRAFT HATFIELD PRECINCT PLAN 2021 UP AS AN ANCHOR INSTITUTION
The purpose of the Draft Hatfield Precinct Plan 2021 was to develop a detailed land use and urban development framework to guide the (re)development of the precinct over the following 10 years and beyond. As such, the plan intends to direct and guide development to reach the development goals for the study area. It includes a spatial and urban design framework that indicates the necessary interventions in the spatial structure; a set of development guidelines and principles to guide future development applications; public and private investment; infrastructure planning and design; construction and maintenance; decision-making; and an implementation framework.
Hatfield Campus, South Campus, Hillcrest Campus and Persequor Park are part of the study area. The Draft Precinct Plan includes various detailed spatial development proposals that follow different principles and requirements. These proposals affect UP’s campuses and the entire study area. The spatial development concept, formulated to provide a spatial interpretation of the development’s intent, comprises a wellconnected precinct, an integrated and open precinct, a legible precinct and an intensified precinct.
The plan has proposed a handful of interventions that affect UP’s campuses, student accommodation and student livelihoods, directly and indirectly. The interventions range from streetscape improvements, new pedestrian lanes and walkways, unique streets with distinctive characters and intensified uses.
The University’s anchor strategy aims to make the neighbourhoods around its campuses more sustainable. Supporting a flourishing economic, social and physical environment in the surrounds of all UP campuses will contribute to the University’s sustainability. The initial focus of UP’s anchor strategy is the Hatfield/Hillcrest area. The project is known as the Hatfield Campus Village project, which focuses on a mutually beneficial partnership between the University and its surrounding community. As the largest landowner in Hatfield Campus Village, UP also makes the largest financial contribution in terms of levies paid to the Hatfield Community Improvement District (HCID). The CID endeavours to maintain a close relationship with the city, particularly its regional office.
A key priority for UP regarding its anchor strategy is the expansion of the area of responsibility of the Hatfield CID, together with infrastructure. It is proposed that the Hatfield CID area be extended to the east, up to Hillcrest Campus as well as Persequor Park and South Campus.
The model established with the HCID in Hatfield Campus Village has provided good results. It could be used as a point of departure for similar initiatives on other UP campuses. However, because of its unique location, each campus has a different set of challenges, as discussed in section 2 (Campus Precinct Plans).
STANZA BOPANE STREET
PRETORIUS STREET
FRANCIS BAARD STREET
LYNNWOOD ROAD
GORDON ROAD
HARTBEESSPRUIT STATION GAUTRAIN HATFIELD STATION
HATFIELD CAMPUS
HILLCREST CAMPUS
PERSEQUOR PARK
TSHWANE TRANSPORT PLAN
PUBLIC TRANSPORT
The Tshwane Comprehensive Integrated Transport Plan (CITP) 2015 was consulted in compiling this public transport section.
HATFIELD CAMPUS, SOUTH CAMPUS AND HILLCREST CAMPUS
The Hatfield-Hillcrest area is served by a commuter rail that connects to the inner city, with a station a few hundred metres from Hatfield Campus’s University Road entrance and the South Campus entrance. This section of the rail network forms part of the ring rail system. The Gautrain highspeed rail line also links Hatfield to the inner city and areas further west.
The Hatfield-Hillcrest area is served by the BRT Line 2A, which goes through the city and connects with Line 1A, which leads north to the Rainbow Junction. The area is also subject to plans for Line 2B, which goes southeast to Menlyn.
Minibus taxis and many public buses, such as Tshwane Bus Services and private bus services, are important for distributing passengers throughout the area to the inner city and beyond. The availability of different modes of transport in the area makes it a public transport hub with excellent accessibility for all traffic modes.
GROENKLOOF CAMPUS
Groenkloof Campus is served by a BRT bus feeder line, which passes the campus via Leyds Street and has a stop next to the campus entrance, connecting to Line 2A, which also connects the inner city and Hatfield. The campus has public road transport options too. Minibus taxis and several public buses, such as Tshwane Bus Services and private bus services, distribute passengers around the precinct, and connect to the inner city and other nodes.
PRINSHOF CAMPUS
Prinshof Campus is served by a BRT bus complementary line, which passes the campus via Steve Biko Road and has a stop a few metres from the campus entrance, connecting to Line 1A and Line 2A, which also connects the inner city and other nodes. The campus has public road transport options too. Minibus taxis and many public buses, such as Tshwane Bus Services and private bus services, play an important role in transporting passengers around the area and connecting them with the inner city, Hatfield and beyond.
ONDERSTEPOORT CAMPUS
This campus is located in an area that is sparsely serviced by public transport, but there are public road transport options. Minibus taxis and several public and private bus services transport passengers throughout the area, to the inner city and beyond.
MAMELODI CAMPUS
The municipality has plans for an 11-kilometre BRT Line 2C, which stretches from Menlyn to Mamelodi. This line is not necessarily close to Mamelodi Campus, but commuters can use other local modes of transport to reach the station and connect with Menlyn, Hatfield and the inner city. Solomon Mahlangu Drive, which passes the campus on the eastern side, is earmarked for a BRT route. Mamelodi Campus also has public road transport options. Minibus taxis, as well as several public and private bus services, transport passengers locally and connect them with other areas.
TSHWANE TRANSPORT PLAN
NON-MOTORISED
ROUTES
The Tshwane RSDF 2018 and the Tshwane CITP 2015 were consulted in compiling this non-motorised transport (NMT) routes section.
HATFIELD CAMPUS, SOUTH CAMPUS AND HILLCREST CAMPUS
Lynnwood Road is earmarked as a cycle route according to Region 3 NMT 3A and 3B plans, catering to Hatfield, South and Hillcrest campuses. NMT class 1 is along Hilda Street through Duxbury Road. Park, Burnett, Prospect and South Street from Hatfield Campus to Hillcrest Campus are pedestrianised with dedicated pedestrian lanes. This mainly benefits students as the precinct is student-oriented, and they travel between Hatfield, South and Hillcrest campuses and residences.
GROENKLOOF CAMPUS
Groenkloof Campus has NMT class 1 south of George Storrar Drive, which borders the campus on the south, to Florence Ribeiro Avenue and beyond, as indicated on Region 3 NMT 3A and 3B plans.
PRINSHOF CAMPUS
Prinshof Campus has NMT class 1 along Soutpansberg Road to the south of Prinshof South Campus, along the southern border, which joins Parker Street to the east according to Region 3 NMT 3A and 3B plans.
MAMELODI CAMPUS
The campus has the Tsosoloso pedestrian walkway and NMT class 1 along Hinterland Avenue at its southern border and Solomon Mahlangu Drive on its eastern border, as indicated on both Region 6 NMT 6A and 6B plans.
UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA MOBILITY
The University is committed to developing a sustainable transport plan, and has conducted a survey to understand student and staff transport patterns and preferences. Using a private car is the dominant mode for commuting to UP campuses by staff (70%) and students (40%). Car usage is followed by walking (17%), University-provided campus buses (14%), formal public transport (13%) in the form of the A Re Yeng BRT, Tshwane municipal buses, the Gautrain with its supporting bus service, and Metrorail. Paratransit (minibus taxis), Uber and metered taxis account for close to 7% of the mode share, followed by bicycles (3.2%) and motorcycles (1%). This study was revisited in 2023.
Parking facilities at UP are under severe pressure, a challenge that can be addressed by providing more sustainable transportation modes. Campuses should be pedestrian priority zones, and all inner campus areas should increasingly be developed as such, while providing for other safe means of non-motorised transport. Vehicular access should be restricted and prevented where possible through integrated campus design and focused around the perimeter. This can, however, only be achieved over time and supported by the development of an integrated transport system.
PEDESTRIAN AND CYCLING MOVEMENT ROUTE
PEDESTRIAN AND CYCLING ROUTES FLANK VEHICULAR ROUTES ON SIDE
RAISED INTERSECTION PRIORITISING PEDESTRIANS AND CYCLISTS
RAISED CROSSING FOR PEDESTRIANS AND CYCLISTS
GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE PROVIDES SHADE AND SHELTER AND SOFTENS THE EDGE
TWO-WAY VEHICULAR MOVEMENT WITH PUBLIC BUS ROUTES
TWO-WAY, SINGLE-LANE VEHICULAR MOVEMENT
PEDESTRIAN WALKWAYS
CYCLING LANES
GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE
VEHICLE LANES
BRT BUS ROUTE
GENERIC MOVEMENT TYPOLOGIES
RAISED INTERSECTION PRIORITISING PEDESTRIANS AND CYCLISTS
RAISED CROSSING PRIORITISING PEDESTRIANS AND CYCLISTS
SPACE PLANNING
Person-to-person connections remain essential for successful learning. Many students seek face time with their peers and professors. This interaction supports critical thinking and encourages advancing dialogue.
Technology is supporting richer face-to-face interactions and higher-level cognitive learning. Progressive educators are leveraging technology to create higher-impact roles for themselves in the classroom.
Integrating technology into the classroom mandates flexibility and activity-based space planning. Different types of spaces are being created to support various activities.
Classrooms with mobile furniture, cafes with whiteboards, and lounges with informal seating and power connections are among the fast-emerging design imperatives for effective educational environments.
CONNECTIVITY
Design spaces with video capture and streaming capabilities in mind. This enables educators to record and stream audio and video content, which can be used for real-time online lectures and revision.
6 PENCILS AND PIXELS
Pencils and pixels will coexist. Technology advancement will continue revolutionising education, but writing and whiteboards remain useful and are easy ways to capture information and activate cognition.
THE ACADEMIC PROJECT
UP has a long history of teaching excellence, primarily facilitated by the quality of its academics and sound spatial planning practices. While excellence in both teaching and research remains a key priority –prioritising student success has become increasingly urgent.
Given its hybrid teaching and learning model, UP will continue to rely on traditional lecture halls, but will also increasingly require large flexible spaces, supporting collaboration, adaptive learning environments, examinations and tests, after-hour study and conferencing. Additionally, all lecture rooms should be equipped with sufficient USB and 220V charging points to allow the use of laptops and other mobile devices in the classroom. This is also important for future classroom computer-based testing. A sufficient number of charging points should be available outside lecture venues, for example, in recreation spaces, social learning spaces and the library.
The need for open IT laboratories and IT laboratories for teaching and learning is expected to remain. Despite the increased use of virtual laboratories, traditional laboratories for practical work in the science disciplines will continue to be required. Several faculties rely on the availability of suitably equipped laboratory and related facilities to provide teaching quality that enhances student success.
UP AS A RESEARCH-INTENSIVE UNIVERSITY
UP is a research-intensive institution, where quality, relevance and impact are central to the goals and nature of the research that it pursues. Its research strategy spans a broad spectrum of knowledge fields, emphasising interdisciplinary, transdisciplinary and collaborative work across knowledge and geographic boundaries. Examples are the the Javett-UP Art Centre, Future Africa, the development of Mamelodi Campus as the University’s Social Innovation Hub, and Engineering 4.0 as the key to unlocking the potential of the 4IR for Africa.
A further emphasis is the theme-based focus of research at UP, aligned with the SDGs, the African Union’s Agenda 2063, and South Africa’s NDP. The University’s experimental farms at Hillcrest (IA@UP) and Miertjie le Roux similarly serve as platforms for multidisciplinary and transdisciplinary research.
This focus on expanding research activities influences the spatial needs of the various faculties (many of which are outlined later in the report):
• There has been a noticeable increase in the need for expanding research support facilities, such as redesigning libraries and expanding postgraduate hubs and writing centres. Master planning for these facilities is underway and is addressed later in the report.
• UP boasts 42 100m2 special-class laboratories and 12 200m2 research laboratories. These are related to science, and human and animal health research activities. Many older research facilities are no longer compliant and fit for purpose. The upgrade of these facilities is thus critical for research outputs.
• As planned for the Agricultural Sciences Building, space optimisation strategies will free much-needed academic space and incorporate new pedagogies for the natural and agricultural sciences.
• Equally important is the alignment of infrastructure with research in the digital age in the form of digital libraries and databases, information systems and facilities. Further high-tech facilities are needed to support expanding research areas, such as recording studios, digital capability laboratories, FabLabs and makerspaces, all essential functions that need to be incorporated into existing environments so that staff and students may have easy access.
• Providing additional postgraduate accommodation and upgrading existing postgraduate accommodation is critical. Accommodation needs for Hillcrest and Groenkloof campuses is covered in more detail later in the plan.
• UP has prioritised the development of digital and data science skills and technologies as enablers of collaborative and transdisciplinary research, bringing together expertise in numerous fields where the University already has recognised strengths to address complex global challenges. The required infrastructure includes the capacity for research data management and high-performance computing. Planning is underway to establish a centralised high-performance computing facility.
For the University to position itself as a leader in various research fields, well-equipped state-of-the-art research laboratories are essential.
THE REIMAGINED UNIVERSITY
The teaching and learning landscape has evolved rapidly since the COVID-19 pandemic because of technological advances and an increased focus on hybrid learning. Repurposing the physical environment is inevitable, and must be led by re-evaluated teaching practices. Classroom layouts should be revised to create viable learning spaces, and renovations must occur efficiently. The creation of open and collaborative spaces will be accelerated.
TEACHING AND LEARNING THE UP WAY
After the pandemic, UP adopted more flexible learning modes, focusing on technology-enabled flipped learning. Students come to class prepared, complete pre-class assessments, engage in class and consolidate their knowledge after class. Every space must be viewed as a valuable tool for learning, and the entire campus should be leveraged as a connected ecosystem of learning environments that supports the hybrid model.
The different types of learning include an F2F Class, which is centralised face-to-face, teacher-guided learning; a BB Collab Class, with live-streamed interactive teacher-guided learning (such as a Zoom class); Self-Study, which is decentralised face-toface learning (self-driven, informal, collaborative learning); and Learning Management System (LMS) guided, with self-guided virtual learning via LMS (Blackboard) courseware.
F2F CLASS
Centralised face-to-face, teacher-guided learning, such as F2F classes and lab work
Flexible hybrid learning
SELF-STUDY
Decentralised face-to-face learning, such as self-study, informal, collaborative learning
BB COLLAB CLASS
Live-streamed interactive teacher-guided learning (such as a Zoom class)
LMS GUIDED
Decentralised self-guided virtual learning via LMS (Blackboard) courseware
All UP campuses are zoned for educational use. This is an extensive land use right that allows for development that is broadly associated with the education, research and administration requirements of the University. It was negotiated and agreed upon with the local authority to optimise the development potential of all campuses within this definition, while allowing limited scope for commercialisation and industry partnerships.
UP’s Department of Facilities Management has embarked on rezoning all the residential properties owned by the University between Hatfield Campus and Hillcrest Campus for appropriate uses, be it for office use, or student or staff accommodation.
While UP has significant rights to development on all its campuses, it intends to execute only some of these rights; the University prefers not to erect multistorey, high-rise buildings. This has implications on campuses such as Hatfield and Prinshof, where limited land is available for expansion. Land is available for expansion on other campuses, such as Groenkloof, Onderstepoort, Hillcrest and Mamelodi. The possibility of expanding facilities on each campus depends on the availability of bulk services from the City of Tshwane.
PROPERTY
PORTFOLIO
6 CAMPUSES total land owned 1 BUSINESS SCHOOL 1 165 6+1
HECTARES
1 052 983 744
M 2 GROSS FLOOR AREA BUILDINGS
65% is assignable floor space across all campusses
20.6bn 43%
REPLACEMENT VALUE OF BUILDINGS of buildings are heritage protected
RESIDENCES
BEDS in 28 residences 10000
BEDS for guest accommodation 208
BEDS for planned future residences 403
FARMS
INNOVATION AFRICA @ UP on Hillcrest Campus
MIERTJIE LE ROUX FARM adjacent to N4 highway 571ha
COLLEGE FARM adjacent to the Vaal River
FACILITIES OWNED BY OTHERS
HEALTH SCIENCES
Clinical training by Faculty of Health Sciences in Tembisa, Wes Koppies, Kalafong, Daspoort and Steve Biko Hospitals
HANS HOHEISEN
The Hans Hoheisen Wildlife Research Centre at the Kruger National Park’s Orpen Gate is used by the Faculty of Veterinary Science as a research station for postgraduate programmes and as a residence for students working at the Hluhvukani Clinic, which is a crucial training facility.
ONDERSTEPOORT
PRETORIA NORTH
MONTANA PARK
RIETFONTEIN
PRETORIA WEST
DANVILLE
ANDEON
LAUDIUM
WATERKLOOF RIDGE
LYNNWOOD
FEARIE GLEN
EQUESTRIA
SILVERTON
EERSTERUST
ATTERIDGEVILLE
VILLIERIA
SINOVILLE
GROENKLOOF HATFIELD HILLCREST
MAMELODI
CULLINAN
RAYTON
SILVER LAKES
TYGER VALLEY
DONKERHOEK
MAMELODI
MIERTJIE LE ROUX
HATFIELD AND SOUTH CAMPUSES
The three main development strategies identified for Hatfield Campus focus on statutory compliance, space optimisation and aligning the campus with the Hatfield anchor strategy. Space optimisation will free up much-needed academic space and incorporate new pedagogies. Many older teaching and research facilities, particularly science laboratories, need to be more compliant and fit for purpose. The upgrade of these facilities is thus critical for research outputs.
Access to Hatfield Campus is addressed in the plan and supports non-motorised transport, addresses parking optimisation, and enhances the corridor between Hatfield and Hillcrest campuses. Current green routes need to be enhanced as student safety is prioritised.
South Campus has been earmarked as a possible arts precinct and is ideal for developing mixed-use spaces and softening the University’s edge.
SOUTH CAMPUS
HATFIELD CAMPUS
HATFIELD CORRIDOR
A key priority is to extend the anchor strategy and expand the area of responsibility of the Hatfield CID, together with its infrastructure. It is proposed that the Hatfield CID be extended to the east up to Hillcrest Campus, Persequor Park and South Campus.
The land uses in this area are varied, and include schools, churches, sports facilities, high-density residences, free-standing houses, shopping centres and retail facilities, places of motor trade and maintenance, places of entertainment, and several modes of transport infrastructure.
UP has significant land ownership in this area and will acquire strategic properties as opportunities arise. The proximity of the University along with the associated services and ownership have a powerful influence on the node’s commercial development; UP is interested in securing the precinct’s economic sustainability as a whole.
TOTAL LAND AREA
BUILDINGS GFA
HATFIELD CAMPUS
HILLCREST CAMPUS
HILLCREST CAMPUS
The properties are severely constrained with regard to bulk service availability. Currently, both Hatfield and Hillcrest campuses feed from the same electrical substation, thus limiting expansion on both campuses. The City of Tshwane’s long-term plan is to install a 132kV substation on the northern side of Hillcrest campus, which will alleviate electrical supply constraints in the future.
Five major project initiatives aim to unlock the development potential of Hillcrest Campus: the master planning of the proposed Innovation Africa @UP project; bulk infrastructure capacity upgrades on the supply side and of UP properties; the proposed Persequor Park development; the phased expansion of facilities at Engineering 4.0; and investigations for the development of 1 000 additional residence beds. Hatfield Campus, South Campus and Hillcrest Campus are inextricably linked through the anchor strategy of UP.
GROENKLOOF CAMPUS
Accessibility to and enhancement of sports facilities will unlock the potential of the campus and relieve pressure on Hillcrest sports campus. This can be achieved by adding an entrance from George Storrar Drive. The proposed projects will strengthen this sporting precinct, enable easy public access, and attract international sports groups and events.
Space optimisation efforts on the campus will allow space to be repurposed for professional support services and academic units to alleviate pressure on Hatfield Campus and South Campus
PRINSHOF CAMPUS
The fragmented nature of this campus poses accessibility and security risks. Challenges also exist with regard to failing bulk services, with different authorities responsible for these services in different areas on the campus.
Establishing pedestrian dominance will address some of these issues. The proposed transport and parking projects will include upgrades to the entrances, introducing a visitor’s access point, additional parking areas, separating academic and public areas, and introducing green routes.
Further planning will entail refurbishing existing teaching and research facilities and clinical training platforms to achieve compliance and modernisation.
ACADEMIC RESIDENCES
ONDERSTEPOORT CAMPUS
The blue area on the adjacent map is land owned by the Agricultural Research Council (ARC). UP has been trying to lease or acquire this land for many years in order to expand its activities. The green areas on the map are also not owned by UP – one part is owned by the ARC and the other by Onderstepoort Biological Products (OBP). UP is interested in acquiring this land because faculty students currently reside in derelict properties.
The campus experience and student life facilities on this campus should be prioritised; this should include creating and upgrading multipurpose sports fields and social learning spaces, and planning a multipurpose hall that can be used for conferences and more. The proposed upgrading of the entrance to the campus will establish a clear demarcation between public and academic facilities, which is critical for student safety and biosecurity. TOTAL LAND AREA BUILDINGS GFA
MAMELODI CAMPUS
The Social Innovation Hub projects planned for Mamelodi Campus will enhance interaction between the University and the community. Initiatives to achieve strong, safe and healthy neighbourhoods as well as soften the edge of the campus will contribute to the transformation of Mamelodi.
ACADEMIC
02 DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL
INTERVENTION STRATEGIES
KEY ELEMENTS AND PRINCIPLES
What follows are key actions or measures taken to achieve the goals and objectives of the SDP.
PLACEMAKING STRATEGIES – interventions to create vibrant, liveable, sustainable spaces:
• Ensuring the activation and surveillance of common spaces by increasing activity, informal surveillance (eyes on the street), events, programming of surrounding building spaces, and other activities that increase use patterns in these spaces
• Enhancing the accessibility and connectivity of common spaces through linkage to movement networks – NMT and motorised
• Minimising mono-functional land use and encouraging mixed-use development – creating spaces that combine various occupancies found on campus to promote diversity of activity
• Enhancing walkability and bikeability – making public spaces more accessible and convenient for pedestrians and cyclists through appropriate surface treatment, increased safety, and bike lanes, including the requirements for universal access
• Green and other pause spaces – incorporating a hierarchy of spaces, such as parks and gardens, into the design of common areas
• Cultivating community – building social connections and a sense of community through common spaces by creating opportunities for students, staff and others to interact
• Implementing sustainable design – incorporating sustainable design principles and practices, such as green infrastructure and energyefficient systems, into the design and management of public spaces
Some of the above are ongoing processes that require monitoring and adaptation to ensure that the areas and spaces remain vibrant and relevant.
BUILT FORM – guiding the development of interventions, changes or new building in accordance with:
• Contextual responsiveness – in order to respond to the surrounding environment and context. This includes using the historical, social, cultural and ecological contexts as starting points for design.
• Resilience, sustainability and adaptability – ensuring that a building or an area can withstand and adapt to the impacts of change resulting from various factors such as climate change, environmental requirements, use requirements or economic factors
• Partnerships of stakeholders within the sphere of influence and change to the built environment
OPEN SPACE AND GREEN NETWORKS:
• Environmental conservation – protecting and preserving natural resources and ecosystems through land management, habitat restoration and conservation
• Connectivity – networks must be interconnected and consist of different types and scales of open spaces
MOVEMENT NETWORKS – connecting people and places:
• Ensuring all aspects of transportation and movement are linked and integrated, and linked to ensure ease of transfer across all modes. This means designing spaces that are easy to navigate, creating connections to public transportation, and designing spaces that comply with universal accessibility principles and requirements.
GENERIC SKETCH OF KEY ELEMENTS AND PRINCIPLES
PLACEMAKING
REINFORCE PEDESTRIAN NETWORKS
Prioritise pedestrians Accommodate cyclists
Pedestrianise significant streets
Formalise pedestrian desire lines
PLACEMAKING
DEFINE ENTRANCES AND EDGES
Open buildings to pedestrian routes
Open buildings to public spaces
Soften impact of parking
Soften edges with activity
Connect various open-spaces scales
Entrance to parkades
Improve access to public
PLACEMAKING
RECONSIDER BOUNDARIES AND USE ZONES
Multidisciplinary lecture facilities
Promote cross-programming between departments
Facilitate smaller-scale meetings
Partner with private sector
PLACEMAKING
ENHANCE PUBLIC OPEN SPACES
Support landmarks
Link streets and open spaces
Change surface over streets
Raise levels
Open into courtyards
Connect various open-spaces scales
BUILT FORM
PROTECTED SIGNIFICANCE
Heritage fabric
Public art
Building facade vs open-area ratio
Significant outdoor space and campus routes
Careful additions
In-between spaces and historical interiors
BUILT FORM
RESPONSIBLE MAINTENANCE
Integrate
Support amenities
Accessible information and decentralised resources
Attached to movement routes
BUILT FORM
ALTERNATIVE LEARNING SPACES
Outdoor learning spaces
Hybrid hot-desking and breakaway rooms
Connect to existing learning spaces
BUILT FORM
ADAPT FOR SUSTAINABILITY
Retrofit sustainable energy resources
Rainwater catchment
Micro energy resources
Low-wattage lighting
Surface run-off catchment
Shaded exterior spaces to reduce urban heat gain
MOVEMENT NETWORKS
INTER-CAMPUS INTEGRATION
Inter-campus shuttle service
Link to mass transit stations
Drop-and-go parking at entrances
Install parking off main pedestrian campus
Bike share with support infrastructure
Tie into existing public transport networks
MOVEMENT NETWORKS
LIMIT ON-CAMPUS MOTORISED TRANSPORT
Keep motorised movement on periphery
Soften vehicle areas with plants
Parking as a buffer
Protect pedestrian interior
Link service areas
MOVEMENT NETWORKS
ON-CAMPUS INTEGRATION
Continuous shuttle services
Bike share with support facilities: storage and ablution facilities Connect campus entrances
Protect avenues Link amenities
Prioritise pedestrians and NMT
MOVEMENT NETWORKS
PRIORITISE PEDESTRIAN MOVEMENT
Establish legible routes and use landmarks as way-finding markers
Use trees and plants to soften spaces
Install street lighting
Create niches and rest spots
Link key spaces
CAMPUS PRECINCT PLANS
The prime objective of the precinct drawings is to provide a tool for decision-makers to guide development in order to achieve the academic vision and objectives of UP. The spatial structure, built form and openspace networks are the primary building blocks. Interventions and changes made to these must be executed with careful consideration of the impact across these sectors.
Existing urban forms and future responses are depicted to respond to drivers, such as creating active edges, improving legibility and responding to external spaces. It delineates and defines the public realm and space. Significant components of hard and soft landscaping that have an impact on the public realm are depicted, like tree lanes, green paths and significant open spaces (such as parks and squares), and how the built form responds and integrates with these.
OPEN-SPACE NETWORKS
An open-space network containing a human-scaled, legible pedestrian network is one of the key building blocks of a sustainable and walkable urban realm. Well-designed open spaces make up the primary building blocks of memorable campus spaces, experienced primarily as pedestrian zones.
Important considerations are connectivity between these spaces, a human scale, environmental comfort, legibility, and a clear and suitable inter-relationship to the surrounding urban form.
MOVEMENT PLANS
The proposed movement plans indicate the various movement network routes and inter-related integration within the urban realm. Routes are defined in terms of the various hierarchies of movement – including nonmotorised transport; various forms of motorised transport; public, private and all other motorised systems – and their spatial impact. Intermodal transfer points develop at the intersection of these networks, and are either developed or informal; this presents an opportunity for the proactive management of the spatial impact and quality of these on the urban realm.
DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES*
The UP Council approved the Financial Sustainability Plan for the University in June 2019. The optimal and cost-effective use of UP facilities, and the use of these facilities to generate third-stream income are important considerations for UP’s spatial development planning.
Areas on the campus were identified and deemed suitable for densifying the existing built fabric and extension or adjustment of open spaces. Implementing proposed new projects can be realised through various funding mechanisms and investment partnerships. New buildings must fit the campus spatial structure and contribute positively to continually improving the campus-built fabric’s quality.
The following campus plans show the proposed new buildings, critical refurbishment projects and movement networks. The plans show the extent of the building fabric, the connections of open spaces, hard and soft, and their relationship to the urban realm.
HATFIELD AND SOUTH PROJECTS
The anchor strategy in Hatfield Campus Village involves both Hatfield and Hillcrest campuses. As outlined previously, UP is involved in the precinct as an anchor institution through its involvement in the Hatfield CID. The focus remains on the economic sustainability of the precinct as a whole, and this is achieved through the following, among others:
• development of the precinct plan in conjunction with the CoT
• engagement with private property developers to direct development proposals to ensure a mixed-use precinct
• community safety enhancement with the SAPS, Metro Police, University and private security
• environmental management, waste removal and streetscaping
• community engagement programmes
• increasing local procurement targets
Challenges include the seasonal student economy, students as soft targets for criminals, urban decay and ageing municipal infrastructure.
NEW BUILD AND DENSIFICATION STRATEGY
1. SOUTH CAMPUS MIXED-USE BUILDING
New mixed-use development containing postgraduate residences and academic spaces
2. UNIVERSITY ROAD PARKING
Possible formalised parking with minor infrastructure, intersection of University and Lynnwood Road (not UP property)
3. TUKKIELAAN BUILDING
Possible location for new academic building
4. LYNNWOOD ROAD AND ROPER STREET
Proposed new semi-public building
5. LYNNWOOD ROAD AND HEROLD STREET
Proposed new mixed-use commercial development
6. HEROLD AND DUXBURY (PARKING SITE)
Site of proposed new academic building located on current parking area, to incorporate current intermodal activity, such as bus parking
7. DUXBURY AND HILDA STREET
Site of proposed new mixed-use commercial development located on current parking area, to incorporate current intermodal activity
8. BURNETT GATEWAY
Site of proposed new mixed-use commercial development
9. ADDITION TO THEOLOGY BUILDING
Interfaith research commons
BUILDING REPURPOSING/UPGRADING
10. SOUTH CAMPUS PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE
11. HEAVY MACHINE LABORATORY
12. NATURAL SCIENCE BUILDING I
13. STUDENT CENTRE
14. HUMANITIES BUILDING
15. AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES BUILDING
16. RESIDENCE NERINA (Heritage portion)
17. MARKETING SERVICES BUILDING
18. BUILDING 7 – SOUTH CAMPUS
19. STUDENT HEALTH
20. DRAMA BUILDING
21. MERENSKY LIBRARY AND STUDY CENTRE
PROPOSED FUTURE DEVELOPMENT
BUILDING MAINTENANCE / REFURBISHMENT / OPTIMISATION
HERITAGE BUILDINGS
OTHER BUILDINGS OWNED BY UP
HATFIELD AND SOUTH NETWORKS
OPEN-SPACE AND MOVEMENT NETWORKS
22. SOUTH CAMPUS GATEWAY
Accessible public spaces at the intersection of University and Lynnwood Roads with the intermodal facility, the entrance to South Campus, Lynnwood Road edge, public transport routes and NMT
23. SOUTH CAMPUS PEDESTRIAN AND CYCLE PATHS
Creating a cycle and pedestrian path parallel to the Boys’ High boundary, linked to other pedestrian paths and routes on campus
24. RING ROAD PEDESTRIAN INTEGRATION
Investigation into improving the contribution of the pedestrian quality of the UP Ring Road. This could include removing portions of parking areas, traffic calming, service points and more.
25. CAMPUS VEHICLE ENTRANCES
Detailed investigation and design at the four vehicle entrances to integrate the various service provision requirements such as security and surveillance, access control, courier delivery, access control, staff and service access, ride-sharing/drop-and-go.
26. PEDESTRIAN SPACES
Development of pedestrian environments and improving universal access
27. CYCLING AND NMT INFRASTRUCTURE ON CAMPUS
Strengthening of cycling infrastructure and provision of other options for NMT on UP property
28. CYCLING AND NMT INFRASTRUCTURE OFF CAMPUS
Strengthening of cycling infrastructure and provision of other options for NMT off campus – influencing CoT policy and future planning. Linkages to public transport access points.
PEDESTRIAN AND CYCLING MOVEMENT ROUTE
TWO-WAY, SINGLE-LANE VEHICULAR MOVEMENT
TWO-WAY, DOUBLE-LANE VEHICULAR MOVEMENT
TWO-WAY VEHICULAR MOVEMENT WITH PUBLIC BUS ROUTES
BICYCLE STOP AND SUPPORT INFRASTRUCTURE
TSHWANE BUS STOP
PEDESTRIANS AND CYCLISTS
PEDESTRIANS AND CYCLISTS
HATFIELD CORRIDOR NETWORKS
The Hatfield, South and Hillcrest campuses are inextricably linked through the anchor strategy of UP, and the various linking activity corridors. The proposed initiatives that aim to reinforce and enhance this link include:
OPEN-SPACE AND MOVEMENT NETWORKS
1. PEDESTRIAN SPACES
Development of the pedestrian environment, improving accessibility options
2. CYCLING AND NMT INFRASTRUCTURE ON CAMPUS
Strengthening cycling infrastructure and providing other options for NMT within road reserves adjoining UP property
3. GREEN NETWORK LINKAGES
Protecting and enhancing natural open-space network
STRATEGY
4. OWNERSHIP
Extending UP land ownership holdings
TWO-WAY, SINGLE-LANE VEHICULAR MOVEMENT
TWO-WAY, DOUBLE-LANE VEHICULAR MOVEMENT
TWO-WAY VEHICULAR MOVEMENT WITH PUBLIC BUS ROUTES
TSHWANE BUS STOP *
PROPOSED UP WELCOME CENTRE ON CORNER OF LUNNON ROAD AND JAN SHOBA STREET
HILLCREST PROJECTS
This area is located between the Hatfield corridor, the N1, N4 and Lynnwood suburb. Challenges to further development are presented by the lack of additional bulk service capacity; alternatives to these are being investigated.
A portion of the open space is a natural conservation area and must be protected in perpetuity. Developing other portions of open land currently used for agriculture or sport requires careful consideration to ensure the best long-term benefits and possible implications to UP.
Persequor Park measures 32.6 hectares in extent. The property is zoned for “educational” according to the Tshwane Town Planning Scheme 2008 (revised 2014). The land uses that can be accommodated are places of childcare, a place of instruction, places of public worship, a social hall and a sport and recreation club. The place of instruction land use specifically allows the University to develop any educational uses, such as tertiary institutionrelated use and ancillary and subservient uses to the primary use, such as student accommodation. Various discussions with interested parties are underway to develop the property within the current land use rights.
Several major project initiatives that will enhance the development potential of Hillcrest Campus are:
• Bulk infrastructure capacity upgrades not only on the supply side but also on UP properties, including Persequor Park
• Master planning of the proposed Innovation Africa @ UP project
• Master planning of the Phytodron D project
• Development of additional residence capacity
• Enhancing and developing UP sport infrastructure
NEW BUILD
1. ENGINEERING 4.0
Extension of the engineering campus research facilities
2. PHASE 2 FUTURE DEVELOPMENT
Future development of the area of land immediately adjacent to the Innovation Hub
3. PHYTOTRON D
Development of specialised bee research facility; seed, tissue and associated research laboratory spaces
4. HILLCREST RESIDENCE – 304 BEDS
New student residences adjacent to golf course
5. HILLCREST AQUATIC CENTRE AND GYMNASIUM
Commercial development linked to the sports academy
1 676m2 aquatic centre with 610m2 indoor pools
2 480m2 gymnasium with 1 250m2 external area
6. BOOK STORAGE LIBRARY WAREHOUSE
Book storage and archive facility
7. PERSEQUOR PARK DEVELOPMENT
Existing rights “educational”: 640 000m2 GFA
Total planned area: 490 000m2
Phase 1: 200 000m2 (bulk electrical available)
BUILDING REPURPOSING/UPGRADING
8. ANIMAL ANATOMY LABORATORY
9. SPORT CENTRE
10. DAIRY UNIT
PROPOSED FUTURE DEVELOPMENT BUILDING MAINTENANCE / REFURBISHMENT / OPTIMISATION HERITAGE BUILDINGS
HILLCREST NETWORKS
OPEN-SPACE AND MOVEMENT NETWORKS
11. PUBLIC TRANSPORT
Adjustments to South Street road infrastructure to facilitate public transport route to the Innovation Hub, Persequor Park and surrounding suburbs
12. LUNNON STREET RESIDENCE ENTRANCE
Road infrastructure restructuring to facilitate ride-sharing, drop-andgo, and access control
13. PEDESTRIAN SPACES
Development of the pedestrian environment, improving universal accessibility options
14. CYCLING AND NMT INFRASTRUCTURE ON CAMPUS
Strengthening cycling infrastructure and providing other options for NMT on UP property
15. SMART AGRICULTURE
Research on smart agriculture, note perimeter planning for biosecurity requirements
PERSEQUOR PARK
16. EXTENSION OF PUBLIC TRANSPORT LINK – HOTEL STREET BRIDGE
Linkage between the proposed public transport route of South Street onto Hotel Street and the future extension along the M1 to improve accessibility of Persequor Park, with bus infrastructure
17. WETLAND/WATERCOURSE
Protecting green linkages of the floodplain area at the CSIR and Hartbeesspruit/Colbyn conservation area
TWO-WAY, SINGLE-LANE VEHICULAR MOVEMENT
TWO-WAY VEHICULAR MOVEMENT WITH PUBLIC BUS ROUTES BICYCLE STOP AND SUPPORT INFRASTRUCTURE * * UP BUS STOP
GROENKLOOF PROJECTS
Groenkloof Campus is isolated from the surrounding urban areas by large road infrastructure and its location next to the University of South Africa and the South African Bureau of Standards, both large institutional landowners.
Adding an additional entrance to the campus on George Storrar Drive will increase the functionality of the sports facilities, which will assist in relieving overutilisation of the sports fields located on Hillcrest Campus.
A space optimisation process is underway on the campus, and will unlock facilities that are to be repurposed for professional support services and academic units in order to alleviate pressure on Hatfield and South campuses.
There are several challenges:
• The isolated location increases the social isolation of residence students.
• There is a lack of stability of municipal services supply due to infrastructure theft.
• The presence of crime around and on campus fuelled by an informal settlement on an unmanaged road reserve.
Key project initiatives are to:
• enhance site accessibility and connections to surrounding amenities;
• enhance the safety of students and the community with the assistance of SAPS, Metro Police, University security and private security firms; and
• improve environmental management, streetscape and infrastructure maintenance and improvement – pursuant to the CoT’s “adopt a spot” strategy.
NEW BUILD
1. PROPOSED NEW BUILDING
2. POSSIBLE NEW SPORTS ACADEMY AND POSTGRADUATE ACCOMMODATION
Investment partnership opportunity on existing parking area, north of watercourse
3. SPORTS CAMPUS ENTRANCE – GEORGE STORRAR DRIVE
To facilitate security, pedestrians and public access, separate from academic access
BUILDING REPURPOSING/UPGRADING
The following buildings are scheduled for an upgrade
4. UPGRADE BUILDING 4675 – KENTUCKY BUILDING
5. CRICKET CLUBHOUSE REFURBISHMENT AND ADDITIONS
6. RESIDENCES UPGRADE AND REFURBISHMENT
7. RELOCATE SPORTSFIELD MAINTENANCE FACILITIES
PROPOSED FUTURE DEVELOPMENT
BUILDING MAINTENANCE / REFURBISHMENT / OPTIMISATION
OTHER BUILDINGS OWNED BY UP
GROENKLOOF NETWORKS
OPEN-SPACE AND MOVEMENT NETWORKS
8. LEYDS STREET ENTRANCE UPGRADE
Incorporate public transport, and e-hailing facilities, lighting and safety
9. PEDESTRIAN SPACES
Development of the pedestrian environment, improving accessibility options
10. CYCLING AND NMT INFRASTRUCTURE ON CAMPUS
Strengthening cycling infrastructure and providing other options for NMT on UP property
11. GREEN NETWORK LINKAGES
Protecting and enhancing natural open-space network
PEDESTRIAN AND CYCLING MOVEMENT ROUTE
TWO-WAY, SINGLE-LANE VEHICULAR MOVEMENT
TWO-WAY, DOUBLE-LANE VEHICULAR MOVEMENT
TWO-WAY VEHICULAR MOVEMENT WITH PUBLIC BUS ROUTES
BICYCLE STOP AND SUPPORT INFRASTRUCTURE
TSHWANE BUS STOP
PRINSHOF PROJECTS
This campus forms part of a larger medical services precinct; the UP campus is interwoven with the Tshwane District and Steve Biko Academic Hospitals, resulting in a campus with a fragmented nature. Various landowners are role-players in the precinct: the National Department of Health, the CoT and UP, further complicating service delivery and maintenance cycles, and causing risks to management and security. Urban and municipal decay is visible in the surrounding areas, resulting in high-crime levels and vagrancy.
The proposed transport and parking projects will include upgrades to the entrances, the introduction of a visitor’s access point, additional parking areas, a separation of academic and public areas, and the introduction of green safety routes.
Further planning will entail the compliance, modernisation and refurbishment of existing teaching and research facilities and clinical training platforms.
Challenges in the area include:
• The isolated location increases the levels of social isolation of students.
• There is a lack of ease of circulation between the various parts of the campus.
• There are frequent municipal services interruptions due to infrastructure theft, and ageing municipal and hospital infrastructure.
• Community outreach needs to be facilitated and access to public facilities controlled.
• Crime tends to occur around the campus due to urban decay in the surrounding area.
• Traffic congestion and additional parking requirements are a continuous challenge.
Key initiatives to respond to these challenges:
• A dedicated shuttle service to improve the functional connections between the various parts that make up the medical campus: Hippokrates and Ukuthula residences, the academic campus, and the hospital and parking areas
• Continuous negotiations with the CoT and other stakeholders to upgrade the physical environment in Dr Savage Road, improving public transport infrastructure and ride-sharing, and solving the occurrence of urban decay
• Enhancing established working relationships with surrounding health infrastructure officials
• Proposed traffic calming around campus entrances
NEW BUILD
1. PROPOSED NEW MEDICAL RESEARCH BUILDING New building in planning stages
2. PROPOSED NEW FACULTY BUILDING
BUILDING REPURPOSING/UPGRADING
The following buildings are earmarked for an upgrade
3. PATHOLOGY BUILDING EXTENSION AND REFURBISHMENT
4. PRINSHOF NORTH AND SOUTH MAIN ENTRANCE UPGRADES
Public access to Oral and Dental Hospital, to facilitate ease of use, security, pedestrians, access control, ride-sharing and private vehicles
PROPOSED FUTURE DEVELOPMENT
BUILDING MAINTENANCE / REFURBISHMENT / OPTIMISATION
HERITAGE BUILDINGS
OTHER BUILDINGS OWNED BY UP
PRINSHOF NETWORKS
OPEN-SPACE AND MOVEMENT NETWORKS
5. STUDENT TRANSPORT SHUTTLE
Shuttle system to be implemented on Dr Savage Road, Bophelo Road and Hippocrates residence on Union Street
6. WESTERN PARKING (not UP land)
Extend and refurbish existing parking area
7. PEDESTRIAN RESIDENTIAL CAMPUS LINK
Fine-grain upgrade to the linkage between the student residential centre and the academic campus – linked to other pedestrian paths and routes
8. DR SAVAGE ROAD PEDESTRIAN SPACES
Upgrade of pedestrian spaces, linkage BMS core space to hospital, student safety, development of the pedestrian environment, improving accessibility options and alternative transport interface (ride-sharing and other forms of public transport)
9. PEDESTRIAN SPACES
Development of the pedestrian environment, improving accessibility options
10. PEDESTRIAN, CYCLING AND NMT INFRASTRUCTURE ON CAMPUS
Strengthening of cycling infrastructure and provision of other options for NMT on UP property, linkages to surroundings
PEDESTRIAN AND CYCLING MOVEMENT ROUTE
TWO-WAY, SINGLE-LANE VEHICULAR MOVEMENT
TWO-WAY, DOUBLE-LANE VEHICULAR MOVEMENT
BICYCLE STOP AND SUPPORT INFRASTRUCTURE
TSHWANE BUS STOP
EXISTING MOVEMENT NETWORK FOR DR SAVAGE ROAD
PROPOSED MOVEMENT NETWORK FOR DR SAVAGE ROAD
ONDERSTEPOORT PROJECTS
The remote location of Onderstepoort Campus renders it almost an island in primarily agricultural and industrial surroundings, with no access for students to any student life opportunities and the surrounding community.
Improving the campus experience and quality of student life facilities should be prioritised. This includes upgrading multipurpose sports fields, creating social learning spaces, and planning a conference and multipurpose hall.
The location drawing indicates land areas in the ownership of ARC and OBP adjacent to the UP campus. If UP can obtain ownership of these portions of land, it will significantly enhance future development opportunities for the Faculty of Veterinary Science.
The proposed upgrade to the campus entrance will improve functionality and better establish control of access to public and academic facilities, including addressing biosecurity requirements that could affect the functionality of the campus.
Challenges in the area include:
• Isolated location increases the social isolation of residence students on this campus.
• Formal public transport infrastructure is inadequate.
• There is inefficient access control, and external traffic congestion and biosecurity concerns.
• Frequent municipal service interruptions occur as a result of infrastructure theft and ageing municipal infrastructure.
• General crime occurs around and on the campus, fuelled by the agricultural and industrial nature of the surroundings.
Key initiatives to respond to some of these challenges are to:
• enhance the established relationships with surrounding parastatals;
• implement the planned road and campus entrance upgrades to enhance safe access and ease public access to the animal hospital;
• address biosecurity requirements for large animals; and
• create an environment where day students can interact.
NEW BUILD
1. MULTIPURPOSE HALL
New building for use by day students (includes amenities, event space, recreation spaces, social learning space)
2. ENTRANCE OPTIMISATION
To facilitate security, pedestrians, biosecurity control, public access, academic access, ride-sharing, public transport stops and private vehicles, investigation of alternative entrance options, including separate entrances/central entrances
3. ARNOLD THEILER LECTURE HALL REFURBISHMENT AND EXTENSION
BUILDING REPURPOSING/UPGRADING
The following buildings are scheduled for an upgrade
4. STUDENT RESIDENCES REFURBISHMENT
5. PARACLINICAL BUILDING EXTENSION AND REFURBISHMENT
6. REMOVAL OF ASBESTOS BUILDINGS
7. PATHOLOGY BUILDING REFURBISHMENT OR NEW BUILD
8. OP VETERINARY ACADEMIC HOSPITAL REFURBISHMENT
9. OP AND ARC VILLAGE – HOUSING RESTORATION, REDEVELOPMENT AND SPATIAL INTEGRATION
PROPOSED FUTURE DEVELOPMENT
BUILDING MAINTENANCE / REFURBISHMENT / OPTIMISATION
HERITAGE BUILDINGS
OTHER BUILDINGS OWNED BY UP
ONDERSTEPOORT NETWORKS
OPEN-SPACE AND MOVEMENT NETWORKS
10. RESIDENTIAL CAMPUS LINK – PEDESTRIAN AND CYCLE PATHS
Fine-grain upgrade to the linkage between the student residential centre and the academic campus – linked to other pedestrian paths and routes
11. PEDESTRIAN SPACES
Development of the pedestrian environment, improving accessibility options
12. CYCLING AND NMT INFRASTRUCTURE ON CAMPUS
Strengthening of cycling infrastructure and provision of other options for NMT on UP property
13. RECREATION AMENITIES: DAY STUDENTS
Outdoor gym, social and contemplative spaces integrated into landscape structure
PEDESTRIAN AND CYCLING MOVEMENT ROUTE
TWO-WAY, SINGLE-LANE VEHICULAR MOVEMENT
BICYCLE STOP AND SUPPORT INFRASTRUCTURE * * UP BUS STOP
MAMELODI PROJECTS
The Social Innovation Hub projects planned for Mamelodi Campus will enhance interaction with the community. Strong, safe and healthy neighbourhoods along with softening the edge of the campus will contribute to its transformation potential.
The campus strives to embrace the community through a proposed soft campus edge to provide community-focused services. It is surrounded mainly by informal residential areas, with semi-formal retail and informal trading.
Challenges in the area include:
• The isolated location increases the social isolation of residence students on this campus.
• Formal public transport infrastructure is inadequate.
• There is inadequate road infrastructure.
• Frequent municipal service interruptions occur as a result of infrastructure theft and ageing municipal infrastructure.
• High crime levels exists around the campus.
Key initiatives to respond to some of these challenges are:
• community outreach initiatives, which provide access to services lacking in the surrounding community; and
• continuously upgrading campus facilities to enhance student life experience.
NEW BUILD
1. CAMPUS ENTRANCE
Considering all aspects of access control to manage security, pedestrians, public access, academic access, and public transport interface, including drop-and-go and e-hailing
2. COMMUNITY OUTREACH PROJECT
Future development on a portion of the UP campus grounds to facilitate University/community outreach projects, workshops, clinics, training and more
3. PUBLIC/UNIVERSITY BOUNDARY
Sports facilities can be publicly accessible
BUILDING REPURPOSING/UPGRADING
4. LECTURE HALL REFURBISHMENT
Upgrading of existing building
PROPOSED FUTURE DEVELOPMENT
BUILDING MAINTENANCE / REFURBISHMENT / OPTIMISATION
OTHER BUILDINGS OWNED BY UP
MAMELODI NETWORKS
OPEN-SPACE AND MOVEMENT NETWORKS
5. PEDESTRIAN SPACES
Development of the pedestrian environment, improving accessibility options
6. CYCLING AND NMT INFRASTRUCTURE ON CAMPUS
Strengthening of cycling infrastructure and provision of other options for NMT on UP property. Considering public transport access and interface.
7. GREEN NETWORK LINKAGES
Protect and enhance natural open-space network
PEDESTRIAN AND CYCLING MOVEMENT ROUTE
TWO-WAY, SINGLE-LANE VEHICULAR MOVEMENT
TWO-WAY, DOUBLE-LANE VEHICULAR MOVEMENT
TWO-WAY VEHICULAR MOVEMENT WITH PUBLIC BUS ROUTES
TSHWANE BUS STOP * * * UP BUS STOP
BICYCLE STOP AND SUPPORT INFRASTRUCTURE
03 IMPLEMENTATION PLANS
PROJECTS AND INITIATIVES INTRODUCTION
The facilities planning initiatives for the University are divided into five categories: master planning, compliance and renewal, development of learning spaces, digitisation, and space optimisation. Various projects are developed on an ongoing basis with relevant end-users. Seed funding is available to further the concepts into actual projects so that high-level estimates can be prepared. This enables UP to determine feasibility and assist with decision-making so that funding can be effectively allocated to the projects. Capital planning is done on an annual basis with a five-year projection. The following section showcases a few crucial projects developed over the past 10 years.
MASTER PLANNING
The primary goal of SDP 2030 is to support the realisation of UP’s strategic goals. The rate at which programmes, technology and student cultures change must be catered for to allow the University to maintain its standing. Master planning initiatives for various entities have been completed to varying degrees of detail to provide a robust framework, in which UP can progress.
COMPLIANCE & RENEWAL
Compliance with applicable legislation is a non-negotiable aspect of all new infrastructure projects undertaken by UP. Improving the fire detection and protection systems in all buildings owned by the University is an ongoing task. Some of the current building services are dated and require urgent replacement. This has severe cost implications for refurbishment. Many buildings proposed for refurbishment do not comply with the latest regulations. The emphasis for the foreseeable future will predominantly be on continued stewardship and the renewal of existing infrastructure.
LEARNING SPACES
UP’s teaching and learning spaces should enable academic success, facilitating effective learning, and enabling students to graduate within the minimum amount of time and with the requisite skills. In this regard, UP pursues a hybrid teaching and learning model, which extends the classroom experience beyond the classroom and allows lecturers to mix the best contact and online delivery to create a rich learning environment for students. Spatial arrangements should be adjusted to meet the needs of students – these needs should not be adjusted to fit existing spatial arrangements. Furthermore, spatial arrangements should anticipate future teaching and learning requirements.
DIGITISATION
New technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) create new opportunities to transform and enhance learning. Technology must be utilised to improve the operational management of the facilities portfolio of the University.
SPACE OPTIMISATION
Several UP buildings require significant renovations and repurposing to improve their functionality and align them with the University’s teaching and learning model. The key idea is to make teaching spaces (such as lecture halls and seminar rooms) sufficiently flexible to support various pedagogical formats. Some older buildings have been identified for repurposing. It is necessary to consider the relocation of specific academic units – be it faculties, schools or centres – to more appropriate facilities, created either through repurposing existing buildings or building new ones. Relocation initiatives are consistently under consideration in order to optimise space use.
MASTER PLANNING: RESIDENCES
The enrolment plan of UP indicates that growth will primarily be at postgraduate level. With minimal postgraduate accommodation available, the University must revisit its offering, particularly to full-time postgraduate students. These students, which include many international students, comprise a significant number of UP postgraduates. The appropriate accommodation offering needs to support the enrolment plan.
The renovation and refurbishment of UP-owned residences, most of which are old and ageing, will have to continue undergoing large-scale upgrades as funding becomes available. One residence is scheduled for refurbishment in 2023 (House Erica), followed by Nerina (2024) and the rest of the Groenkloof residences.
To increase the University’s ability to meet the growing demand for student housing, the construction of cost-effective, sustainable, environmentally friendly student housing on vacant residential land using non-traditional building solutions has been approved in principle and should be pursued as a matter of urgency. The aim should be to add 2 000 more beds to the UP-owned portfolio to reduce the need to lease additional accommodation. Planning for new residences on William Street (99 beds) and Hillcrest (304 beds) is complete, and the projects await funding.
The hybrid teaching and learning model requires convenient access to high-speed internet, also in student residential spaces. Student housing facilities, postdoctoral houses and guest accommodation facilities for visiting academics and exchange programmes do not have adequate Wi-Fi installations, and these will have to be phased in.
MASTER PLANNING: EBIT – ENG4.0 AND HML
The proposed facilities for the Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology (EBIT) are meant to support research themes in smart transportation and cities, water and energy. Phase 1 of the Engineering 4.0 development is complete. Phases 2 and 4 are also planned for the Engineering 4.0 site at Innovation Africa @UP, but will depend on negotiations with potential external partners for funding. Discussions with the water, mining and rail industry have been initiated.
Energy is one of the world’s significant challenges; it’s also the biggest challenge for the growth of the South African economy at present (and will continue to be for the next few decades). Providing cleaner energy and more of it, while phasing out fossil fuel power stations is only possible with nuclear and renewable energy. The phasing out of recently built fossil fuel power stations will take 20 to 40 years.
Phase 3 concerns repurposing portions of the heavy machine laboratory (HML) on Hatfield Campus currently occupied (temporarily) by occupants from the Mineral Sciences Building, which is being refurbished. It has been proposed that all EBIT energy initiatives in the Department of Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering (renewable energy, hydrogen fuel cells and smart electrical management) be consolidated in the heavy machine laboratories. This will allow for all energy-related activities at UP to be integrated under one roof. Furthermore, HML space will be assigned to the Department of Mechanical and Aeronautical Engineering. A FabLab (digital fabrication laboratory) will also be established in the space. Master planning and the phased proposal are complete.
MASTER PLANNING: BIOECONOMY RESEARCH
The University’s experimental farms at Hillcrest and Miertjie le Roux serve as platforms for multidisciplinary research. Innovation Africa @UP on Hillcrest Campus, in particular, is being redeveloped as a transdisciplinary innovation hub for Africa.
Bioeconomy is recognised globally as one of the highest potential economic growth and development sectors. UP is positioned to be a key partner in realising the South African Bioeconomy Strategy, with forestry and agriculture as its foundation.
Innovation Africa @UP holds the key to unlocking UP’s enormous potential in this regard. This potential is increasingly evident to various role-players in the agricultural industry, and there is an unprecedented number and breadth of partnerships developing that could make UP a national agricultural and forestry research hub.
These include recently signed memoranda of understanding for long-term partnerships with GrainSA, SANSOR, a China-South Africa joint research centre in forestry, and Microsoft (which focuses on the digitisation of agriculture). Negotiations with AFGRI, AgriSA, the Maize Trust and others are underway. These partnerships will build on existing expertise and partnerships that characterise UP’s world-class Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI) and its associated centre of excellence, as well as several research programmes, two centres and an institute focused on various aspects of food security, among others.
The developments at Innovation Africa @UP and Future Africa stimulate the convergence of expertise across the faculties of Natural and Agricultural Sciences; EBIT; Veterinary Science; and Economic and
Management Sciences (EMS). An opportunity that emerges from such a convergence of expertise and external partnerships is for UP to position itself as a leader in developing 21st-century technologies for both large industries and small-scale or emerging farmers. This is vital to unlocking the potential of the bioeconomy in Africa. The infrastructure on Innovation Africa @UP does not support world-class research and training in this area. To set the premises on the road to development as a world-class bioeconomy research hub, the following steps are necessary:
INVESTMENT IN IMMEDIATE INFRASTRUCTURE NEEDS
In response to the developing partnerships and needs in the agricultural industry, adjustments and/or expansions can be made to existing laboratory spaces aligned with the longer-term vision for Innovation Africa @UP. This includes expanding laboratory and growth facilities to serve growing plant biotechnology, plant health and insect genetic engineering capacity. The master planning for these facilities has been completed and is referred to as the Phytotron D Master Plan. The plan proposes optimising existing facilities and adding greenhouses, tunnels, tree cages and plant propagation.
RELOCATION OF ACTIVITIES FROM INNOVATION AFRICA @ UP
The proposed developments at Innovation Africa @UP necessitate the relocation of livestock from Hillcrest Campus to the UP-owned Miertjie le Roux Experimental Farm. A proposal from the African Feed Manufacturers Association to erect a feed mill on the property was a catalyst for moving the livestock to the Miertjie le Roux farm. The developments on the farm require infrastructure and security upgrades, and the installation of backup power.
PROPOSED FEED MILL AT MIERTJIE LE ROUX
COMPLIANCE & RENEWAL: PARACLINICAL, OP
The Paraclinical Building on Onderstepoort Campus (OP) is 68 years old and needs significant renovations to meet current health and safety standards, and accommodate modern laboratory practices. Wet services, electricity supply and ventilation are some of the major challenges that must be addressed.
In 2020, a new operational plan and master plan for the building was developed with all stakeholders: the departments of Veterinary Tropical Diseases and Paraclinical Sciences, and the Onderstepoort Veterinary Animal Research Unit (OVARU). The outcome of the master planning led to a three-phase construction project where an additional building needs to be constructed in Phase 1 and the old building refurbished in Phases 2 and 3 to accommodate ongoing service delivery and compliance issues.
The academic cohort will benefit from improved operations, process flows, a centralised waste area, sample reception and optimised office spaces as well as student-focused learning spaces.
The first phase will provide a new building of 1 470m2 and a BSL3 Laboratory. The new building will house critical functions and improve staff and student facilities. It will accommodate offices, laboratories, student teaching and learning facilities. Once this building is complete, subsequent phases can be considered.
COMPLIANCE & RENEWAL: PATHOLOGY, PRINSHOF
The Pathology Building on Prinshof Campus was built in 1945. It houses the various pathology departments and leases space out to the National Health Laboratory Service. The 12 921m² building is divided into laboratories, offices and lecture facilities. The pathology departments housed in the building are Haematology, Microbiology, Chemical Pathology, Virology, Immunology, and Anatomical Pathology.
MBChB students use the building for SIC rotations. The building is also used by registrars, scientists, intern scientists, medical technologists and medical technicians, and PhD, MSc and BSc (Hons) students.
It is overused and needs urgent upgrading and a refurbishment of services, laboratories, lecturing facilities and student learning spaces. Service infrastructure such as water and sanitation pipes, electrical reticulation and other building systems requires urgent replacement.
COMPLIANCE & RENEWAL: OVAH, ONDERSTEPOORT
It has been proposed that Onderstepoort Veterinary Academic Hospital (OVAH) undergoes extensive renovations. The proposed total refurbishment for the hospital is spread over 14 phases. The first phase is underway with flooring replacement. Two notable projects have been completed: the High Care Unit refurbishment and the MRI installation.
It has also been proposed that the student practice area be moved to the farm area of the campus. The vacated areas can be converted to student change rooms to prevent contaminated clothing from being worn outside the hospital environment.
PHASE
LARGEANIMAL ISOLATION
PHASE I PRODUCTION ANIMALS & EQUINES
PHASE II.A CONSULTATION ROOMS NEW MRI
PHASE II.E HIGH CARE UNIT
PHASE IV SMALLANIMAL ISOLATION
PHASE IV CHANGE ROOMS
PHASE III.C ADMIN
PHASE II.F OPERATING THEATRES
PHASE II.D ANCILLARY FUNCTIONS
PHASE II.B SMALL-ANIMAL CLINIC
PHASE II.C SMALL-ANIMAL CLINIC
PHASE III.B DIRTY SKILLS LAB & PROCEDURE ROOMS
PHASE III.A ANCILLARY FUNCTIONS
COMPLIANCE & RENEWAL: UNIVERSAL ACCESSIBILITY
UP is committed to ensuring the effective attraction, participation and contribution of students with disabilities throughout the learning experience. Inclusion and diversity are fundamental to UP’s culture, and disability equity is essential to transformation and diversity agendas.
The University recognises the necessity of proactively removing barriers to students with disabilities, and aims to establish an inclusive environment that benefits employees, students and visitors alike. Not only is UP committed to ensuring that its built environment complies with the National Building Regulations for people with disabilities, but it has also developed a guideline that includes additional sound-practice design principles to further enhance and support accessibility on campuses.
All new and refurbishment projects are planned so that the facility complies with the universal accessibility guidelines, which cater to different types of disabilities. Due to the scope of the investment required to make all facilities universally accessible, a phased approach has been adopted for older structures, where projects are prioritised based on urgency. The projects range from ramps to more complex upgrades, including lift installations, landscape upgrades and rational fire designs. The Disability Unit is closely consulted, and assists with project requirements and planning prioritisation.
LEARNING SPACES: ECOSYSTEM OF LEARNING SPACES
Projects completed over the past two years and those in planning demonstrate the ecosystem of reimagined learning spaces at UP.
Lecture venues – such as the EMS postgraduate hub, Akanyang, mathematics tutor venues and the Tšwelopele lecture complex on Prinshof Campus – are designed with multiple learning situations in mind. Technologies are effectively integrated to support a variety of teaching and learning modes, with easy transitions between them. The Digital Capability Laboratory, a Success Erasmus+ project, is a high-technology simulation lecture venue where students will learn necessary computing skills and be able to engage with industry.
Speciality zones like laboratories support multidimensional teaching and learning models, such as observation, experimentation and practice in a specific field. This includes the consumer science training laboratory, civil engineering concrete laboratory, health sciences skills laboratory, veterinary skills laboratory and the MRI at the Onderstepoort Academic Hospital.
The popular Merensky Library and Future Africa research commons were designed to be vital learning hubs, with various settings supporting collaborative learning and focused individual study. Libraries of the future will be centred on this approach.
Makerspaces are creative, self-directed learning spaces where students can create, invent and learn. They form part of expanding strategies for student success. These spaces allow students to impart practical skills, experience hands-on learning, explore their creativity and learn to problem-solve.
Existing makerspaces include the Merensky 2 Library Makerspace; the technology laboratory in Faculty of Education’s Department of Science, Mathematics and Technology Education and the TuksNovation high-tech incubator.
Student commons in the new Engineering 4.0 Building, Akanyang and the new Graduate Hub at the Graduate Centre support the many ways to learn, and are multipurpose environments for relaxing, socialising, discussing ideas or studying alone with others nearby. A commons area helps students to develop personally and stay engaged in the experience of learning.
In-between spaces are hallways and ancillary areas where discussions and informal learning takes place. These can be used by individuals and groups, giving students more choices and optimising real estate. An excellent example is the newly refurbished foyer at HW Snyman North on Prinshof Campus and the Arnold Theiler social learning space on Onderstepoort Campus.
Outdoor spaces are often overlooked. Supportive work surfaces, seating, access to charging points and outdoor settings can be stimulating environments for project work and individual study. The completed Monastery Hall and external seating at the Law Building demonstrate the potential of outdoor areas.
In future, learning spaces that are flexible and adaptable will better support the adaptability expected of educators and students. It is hoped that enhanced hybrid learning connections will bring online and physical experiences together to create an elevated sense of community.
SPECIA YZONES
LECTU VENUES MAK PACES
COMMONS
ECOSYSTEM OF LEARNING SPACES
IN-BETW NSPACES
OUTDO SPACES RESEAR
LEARNING SPACES: REIMAGINING MERENSKY LIBRARY
The University’s various libraries were designed for books. As UP moves into the 21st century and the digital era, these facilities will be reconfigured with the 4IR in mind, where information is made available digitally from many sources and in many modes using state-of-the-art information technology. The Merensky 2 building, which houses the main library, was built in the 1960s and was designed to store and provide access to paperbased collections. While preserving unique and historically significant collections remains essential, the current design restricts how new technologies and new ways of learning can be accommodated.
The Merensky Library needs to be refurbished to facilitate digital access to an ever-increasing amount of information while providing access to new technologies – such as digitisation, imaging, 3D printing, makerspaces and robotics – thereby serving as interlinked, multipurpose social and collaborative learning spaces. The concept includes a digital scholarship centre where digital technologies and facilities can enhance research, publication and the preservation of information. This would provide digital mapping, 3D modelling, virtual reality research, digital exhibits, computational text analysis, database development and contentencoding facilities.
The library’s redesign is complete. It has been designed so that the project can be phased in as funding becomes available. The building’s fire protection services are being upgraded as a first phase to comply with the latest fire regulations. The upgrade will accommodate any future expansion and increase student numbers, as 70% of books will be removed to make space for student spaces. Library Services has undergone a digitisation process and current collections have been assessed in order to optimise them.
The provision and management of study spaces is another critical role of the library. As learning transforms from the expectation of acquiring and accumulating information to the skills required for using and translating (digital) information and developing new applications, students increasingly require learning spaces where information and guidance in accessing digital services is readily available.
Spaces for postgraduate collaboration, known as research commons, have been created in the Merensky Library on Hatfield Campus and in certain faculties, notably the Faculty of Veterinary Science and the Faculty of Education, with new developments in the EMS Faculty (a study centre) and the Faculty of Health Sciences. These social learning spaces are aimed at postgraduate students, and, given the University’s enrolment plan to grow postgraduate student numbers, it is expected that more of these spaces would be required in future.
DIGITISATION: ENHANCING LEARNING
Connecting their smartphones, laptops and other electronic devices in class to the internet via Wi-Fi enables students to communicate with classmates and their lecturer, watch videos, connect to the learning management system (LMS), and use various other applications. Technology allows the calibration of classroom activities but also makes new activities possible. Educational spaces must be more dynamic, versatile and diverse. The spaces should support hybrid teaching and learning, a culture of curiosity, enquiry, contemplation, creativity and innovation, and encourage interaction and collaboration through events and social encounters.
The Mineral Sciences Building refurbishment is an example where a virtual conference facility doubles as a lounge and collaboration space. The lecture venues have flexible furniture and can be configured into different set-ups. The Department of Geology’s lecture space integrates well with the museum space and can double as a study lounge. Strong Wi-Fi and ample power sockets are provided throughout the building.
The proposed refurbishment of Building 7 on South Campus will house town and regional planning studios and a facility that can address the hybrid teaching technical needs; a virtual conference centre; a panel discussion-/interview-style recording studio; green screen facilities; and online class recording studios.
MINERAL SCIENCE VIRTUAL CONFERENCE FACILITY
DIGITISATION: IMPROVING OPERATIONS
Technology is available to assist in measuring and reducing UP’s carbon footprint by reducing, for example, power consumption by remote monitoring and adjustment of air conditioning systems. Various applications and platforms are being investigated.
In support of the Department of Architecture’s Digital Twin initiative, IoT devices will be installed in the Boukunde Building. The initiative will explore the opportunities, needs and benefits of employing digital twin technology in the built environment in South Africa, and will assist the Department of Facilities Management to determine the occupancy of buildings, assist with space optimisation, improve building operations, measure energy (energy certification) and plan maintenance.
SPACE OPTIMISATION: AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES
The 50-year-old Agricultural Sciences Building needs significant changes to optimise the available space, and improve its functionality and safety. An analysis by specialists in laboratory design has resulted in a proposal for a two-phased refurbishment of the building. A new operational model was proposed, which informed the new layout. The proposal has been workshopped with relevant stakeholders and has been well received. The new layouts will eliminate the duplication of laboratory functions and equipment.
The 13 226m² building is repurposed in such a way that space occupancy is improved from 9.19m² per person to 5.20m² per person, which aligns with Higher Education Management Information System (HEMIS) norms in terms of space allocation per person. Additionally, 3 927m² will become available for the following functions: student write-up spaces, mentorship hubs, an exhibition space, a teaching space with 150 computers, bulk storage and centralised receiving, dedicated waste storage, a dedicated gas bank, additional ablutions and accessible toilets for each floor, and cleaners’ storage.
The significant benefits of the consolidation of spaces are increased productivity, an efficient use of skill mix, centralised management, lower costs through synergy, a maximisation of capital utilisation, improved cash flow and a reduction in the risk of isolated dedicated services. The optimal efficiencies will be achieved through economies of scale, leading-edge technology, infrastructure and IT, and the adoption of best working practices.
SPACE OPTIMISATION: MARKETING SERVICES
The Marketing Service Building refurbishment was planned in 2018. The current typical cellular-type office building will be transformed into a modern open-plan newsroom or a bookable co-working facility. As a space optimisation initiative, the new design increases the building occupancy from 45 to 65 people, freeing up the entire ground floor with an additional 20 seats (that is a 44% increase). This calculation may not easily be applied to other buildings in the University but can be used as a benchmark. Other factors determining space optimisation are the building footprint, number of stories and structural configuration.
Although open-plan offices have received much scrutiny in the past decade, the current proposal manages noise and privacy by clustering smaller pockets of open-plan offices – not more than five staff members in a cluster – in between meeting rooms. Material choice was carefully considered to reduce noise and create an open, professional, collaborative space. A proper reception and waiting area is located at the entrance to the building, and spaces become more private as you move deeper into the building.
The new design provides four smaller private discussion rooms that can be used for online meetings, quick discussions or phone calls. Three informal discussion tables are available for staff to quickly collaborate without leaving the space, and the building is equipped with three larger bookable boardrooms. The facility also boasts a flexible 35-seater training facility. Space diversity is critical to the success of the new modern way of working.
ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY
Sustainability is one of UP’s strategic goals. The University Strategic Plan upholds environmental sustainability as a guiding principle in the stewardship of UP’s facilities, advancing the optimal utilisation of existing space (both buildings and land); cost-effective, ecologically conscious construction and maintenance; effective waste management; and a strengthened sustainability ethos.
UP has adopted a series of core values for carbon management. These include a statement of concern for sustainability and the relationship with the environment. On that basis, a University Environmental Policy has been developed. The policy states:
“In achieving excellence in teaching and research, UP aims to manage its activities, buildings and estates to promote environmental sustainability, to conserve and enhance natural resources and to prevent environmental pollution, to bring about a continual improvement in its environmental performance.”
The UP 2022 Sustainable Development Report is a strategic framework to guide and support the delivery of UP’s sustainability agenda and ensures integrated performance based on the international Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and indicators and accountabilities for the various divisions within the Department of Facilities Management. The plan is based on the 17 SDGs.
The following policies and procedures also support UP’s response to sustainability: the Energy Management Policy, Occupational Health and Safety Policy, Water Management Policy, Water Management Plan, Hazardous Waste Disposal Procedure, Conservation and Restoration of Terrestrial Ecosystems Guidelines, Alien Species Guidelines, Protection of the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red-listed Species, Heritage Conservation Management Plan, and the Standard Operating Procedure on Environmental Management Guidelines.
Sustainability reporting – such as the annual Carbon Footprint Report –provides a synopsis of the organisation’s performance for its stakeholders. UP was ranked among the top 200 universities worldwide in the 2023 Sustainability Rankings, and second in South Africa and Africa. An annual sustainability communication plan will be developed to raise the visibility of UP’s commitment and to engage staff and students in the goals and strategies of the Sustainability Management Plan.
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
The Department of Facilities Management strives for best practices in managing biodiversity; greenhouse-gas emissions and energy, water, recycling and waste; planning and development; procurement; and transport.
The Sustainability Management Plan 2022 identifies goals, objectives, key performance indicators, targets and strategies for the relevant divisions within the department. To ensure that the department succeeds in reducing environmental pressures and using resources more effectively, the plan focuses on the SDGs, on which the department has a direct bearing.
The following SDGs are impacted:
• Goal 3 Good Health and Well-being
• Goal 6 Clean Water and Sanitation
• Goal 7 Affordable and Clean Energy
• Goal 9 Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
• Goal 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities
• Goal 12 Responsible Consumption and Production
• Goal 13 Climate Action
• Goal 15 Life on Land
These goals have a direct impact on the SDP and are expanded on in the following section.
Develop a sustainable transport plan
Landscaping should be consistent with regional ecosystems, be waterwise, improve soil conditions and protect flora
Implement and follow energy-efficient practices
ENERGY AND
CLIMATE
Improve the indoor environment, lighting levels and temperature control to function more efficiently MAINTENANCE
Apply effective water conservation measures WATER
Incorporate principles of green building practices by reviewing guidelines and improving space utilisation PLANNING
Apply effective waste minimisation strategies in line with the waste hierarchy
PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION
Construction projects must aim to source local materials, reduce waste and recycle furniture and materials where possible
IMPLEMENTATION: TRANSPORT
Human activities have been almost solely responsible for the increase in greenhouse gases in the atmosphere over the past 150 years. UP’s primary sources of greenhouse-gas emissions are transportation and electricity production.
Transportation: Scope 1 emissions are direct emissions from sources owned or controlled by UP.
Direct emissions result from the UP-owned vehicle fleet and the use of LPG gas for research in laboratories. Scope 1 emissions account for 1.59% of the total carbon footprint of the University.
UP supports the development of integrated transport plans, which include the development of public transport and nonmotorised transport initiatives. These reduce the dependency on private vehicles. Green infrastructure includes greenways for cycling and walking, bike sheds and bike-sharing schemes.
Using electric cars and providing electric loading bays on campus are also some of the initiatives pursued to reduce UP’s dependency on non-renewable energy.
SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORT
Providing and incentivising alternatives to driving alone to and from campus, including public transportation, University shuttles, and reduced parking rates or carpools.
IMPROVE BICYCLE INFRASTRUCTURE
CAMPUS TRANSPORT
Providing electric charging bays powered by solar panels on carports are being investigated to reduce dependency on non-renewable energy. Battery-operated golf carts are in use on campuses.
TECHNOLOGY AND CONNECTIVITY
Teleconferencing and video conferencing facilities reduce trips between campuses.
Provide NMT infrastructure for cycling lanes along public roads. Allow commercial enterprises to launch bike-sharing schemes with repair services. Cultivate a cycling culture.
SHARED DRIVING
Dedicated pick-up points for commercial shared driving initiatives with a security presence. Operational measures should be implemented to limit vehicle stacking and road blocking.
CAMPUS POLICIES
Campus planning policies that promote a pedestrian and bikefriendly environment.
IMPLEMENTATION: ENERGY
Over the course of 2021, a total of 80 011 672kWh of electricity was purchased from the local municipality. The installation of photovoltaic infrastructure over the past five years reduced electricity use by 2%.
Electricity purchased from Eskom: Scope 2 emissions are emissions from the generation of purchased electricity consumed by the University.
Emissions as a result of electricity consumption contribute to 98.41% of UP’s overall total carbon footprint. UP’s Energy Management Policy has been in place since 2016. The plan sets out the University’s intention to improve and promote energy efficiency and conservation.
PROJECTS:
• Existing photovoltaic (PV) installations: Merensky Library, Technical Services Building, Future Africa, Engineering 4.0, Building Sciences Building, Centenary Building
• Installation of a 2.6 MVA solar PV power – PPA contract, Hillcrest Campus
• Provide solar panels on carports to charge electric cars
• Provide electric cars and charging parking bays for UP’s vehicle fleet expansion
RENEWABLE EFFICIENCY
Reduce UP’s dependence on municipal supply and expand alternative energy solutions where possible.
CONSERVATION
Allocate maximum electricity usage monthly for each building and charge occupants for extra usage. Create an energy-use app with usage alerts.
Replacement of street lighting with new energy-efficient lighting; installation of an ENRG Blanket to reduce 25 to 35% of heating, ventilation and air conditioning costs; installation of new and improved power factor correction.
ACCESS
UP endeavours to provide electrification through decentralised, renewable-based solutions.
BACKUP SUPPLY
UP provides energy backup systems that are reliant on fossil fuels. Backup generators are problematic due to the running cost, sound and air pollution. Renewable solutions for energy backup systems should be investigated.
MONITORING
Improve building Energy Performance Certification rating.
IMPLEMENTATION: WATER
The CoT is under severe capacity constraints as Rand Water, which supplies 70% of CoT water, has notified them that the existing water supply capacity will not be increased for the next 10 years. The implication is that all new developments must be supplied from local water sources such as the Rietvlei and Roodeplaat Dams, boreholes and fountains.
Water use accounts for about 15% of UP’s annual utility budget and is used daily for laboratories and research, dining services (food preparation), restrooms (sanitation and showering) and grounds maintenance. UP has in place the Water Management Policy and Water Management Plan, through which it endeavours to achieve all goals set for efficiently managing water resources.
Initiatives to counter the pending problems with water supply include the following projects:
• Sustainable drainage systems (SuDS): Engineering 4.0, Hillcrest and Tegnika Building, Groenkloof
• Reuse of grey water for flushing toilets: House Khutso and Nala
• Aqua trip technology to be rolled out to other residences
• Install a waterless system at UP’s fleet car wash facility
• Upgrade steel pipe infrastructure with high-density polyethene piping to prevent leaks
REDUCE REUSE
Reduce dependence on municipal water with a backup tank to avoid “day zero”.
Reuse of grey water for flushing toilets and the irrigation of landscapes. Reuse water harvesting from roofs to supplement the backup water system.
REPLENISH FILTERING
The implementation of SuDS as a tool to harvest stormwater and recharge groundwater. SuDS aim to improve the impact of urban development on the natural water cycle. If the groundwater is not replenished, the reliance on boreholes as a source is unsustainable.
The pre-treatment of sewer water on-site reduces treatment required at the public sewer treatment plan. Capture wastewater from the fleet car wash and filter it before discharging or reusing it for gardening purposes.
The implementation of water-wise gardening, including using organic mulching to retain water. Soaker hoses and drip irrigation minimise evaporation loss.
Adding organic matter to the soil improves the soil structure due to the presence of microorganisms. The “glue” increases the water-holding capacity of the soil.
IMPLEMENTATION: WASTE
The Campus Services Division (Waste and Environmental Management) under the Department of Facilities Management removes general and hazardous waste from all UP campuses.
There are several mechanisms that the University is using to manage general waste collection and removal. These mechanisms aim to minimise UP’s carbon footprint by minimising general waste disposal to landfills.
Since 2015, UP has been actively involved with recycling initiatives, and has a hazardous waste procedure in place. The National Waste Management Strategy 2020 is explicitly responsive to SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production. This aligns with the NDP – ensuring environmental sustainability and an equitable transition to a low-carbon economy.
THE FOLLOWING PROJECTS ARE IN PLACE AT UP:
• Hazardous waste disposal system – Daniels reusable sharps containers
• Bokashi food waste implemented at some restaurants – implemented on Hatfield Campus
• Development of a standard for waste collection sites for all campuses that comply with all health and safety regulations
AT THE SOURCE SOLID WASTE
Separation at the source ensures a better quality product that can be recycled.
COLLECTION SITES
Developing a prototype that will be rolled out to all campuses to optimise the effective functioning of each collection site.
Prioritise purchasing assets and products that can be reused or recycled at end-of-life.
Develop solid waste planning objectives.
TENDERS
Ensure waste guidelines, policies, objectives, monitoring and reporting are incorporated into tenders and contracts.
Ensure waste management is a part of student, staff and contractor orientation. REUSE EDUCATE
DEVELOPMENT ZERO WASTE
Waste system consideration in building design standards for all developments and refurbishments.
Set progressive targets to achieve continuous improvement and zero waste to landfill.
IMPLEMENTATION: LANDSCAPE
COLLABORATIVE SPACES FUNCTIONAL SPACES
Informal social learning spaces for collaborative learning stimulated by the natural environment
SOCIAL LEARNING SPACES
UP’s widespread land and facility footprint requires focusing on land management and biodiversity, bringing together much of the sustainability efforts outlined earlier. Managing the sports fields is central to enabling TuksSport’s core functions. Gardens across the campus provide opportunities to live in closer harmony with nature, and biodiversity has to be protected with new infrastructure developments. In addition, the University is associated with sensitive water ecosystems, the resilience of which needs to be strengthened in the face of upstream urban development.
As the sustainable development agenda develops, it becomes more apparent that mimicking natural systems are central to achieving sustainability goals.
THE FOLLOWING PROJECTS SHOULD BE NOTED:
• Invasive species control: Strubenkop, Hillcrest Campus
• Promote social learning spaces and provide designated smoking areas
Landscapes for active and passive recreation and ceremonial events
SPORTS FIELDS AND PARKS
PLAZAS AND PASSIVE RECREATION
HERITAGE LAWNS
MEMORIAL GARDENS
HABITAT INTEGRITY
Landscapes that address the sensible management of sensitive ecological systems
RIDGES
NATURAL DRAINAGE LINES
WETLANDS AND WOODLANDS
PROTECTED GRASSLAND AREAS
BLUE AND GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE
Landscapes that clean water and air, treat organic waste, alleviate noise and visual pollution and support biodiversity
SUSTAINABLE DRAINAGE SYSTEMS (SuDS)
GREY AND BLACK WATER RUN-OFF
GREEN INDUSTRY BUFFERS
GREEN WALLS AND ROOFS
PRODUCTIVE LANDSCAPES
Landscapes that generate new knowledge, grow energy and food and create new urban experiences
URBAN FARMING AND HYDROPONICS
RESEARCH PROJECTS
SOLAR FARMS
COMPOSTING SITES
LANDSCAPE
COLLABORATIVE SPACES
ACTIVATION
The key to successful outdoor spaces is to make people want to linger, meet friends and feel safe. The activation principle provides natural surveillance and activity that put ownership and eyes on the area.
OPEN-SPACE DESIGN
Introducing interactive art, bike racks, walking pathways, tables, chairs and shade allows people to gather in these areas. Wi-Fi and charging ports draw students into the space and enhance the informal learning environment.
BIOPHILIC DESIGN
An approach that fosters beneficial contact between people and nature in modern buildings and landscapes. This design response enhances the health and well-being of individuals.
SPORTING EVENTS
TuksSport features excellent sporting facilities, and there are various opportunities for beginners to elite athletes. Membership is open to students, staff, alumni and the community.
LANDSCAPE
FUNCTIONAL SPACES
CULTURAL HERITAGE
Hatfield Campus has identified the need to unpack its cultural heritage by conceptualising a linear arts axis along Tukkielaan from the Javett Art Centre to the Old Arts Museum.
CEREMONIAL
Ceremonial landscapes create a sense of celebration. They encourage the user to pause and engage actively or passively. Amphitheatres draw scores of people to engage in the celebration of an event. Formal landscapes celebrate historic architecture and create a more passive sense of reflection.
LANDSCAPE HABITAT INTEGRITY
CONTROL
Eradication and control of invasive species Category 1a – compulsory control, according to NEMBA Alien and Invasive Species Regulations Category 1b – under the species control programme
CONSERVATION
Protection and conservation of environmentally sensitive areas – these landscape elements or places are vital to the long-term maintenance of biological diversity, soil, water or other natural resources, both on the site and in a regional context.
PLANNING
Retain ecological corridors between different ecological zones, as was done for the rehabilitation of Hartbeesspruit in 2015 on Hillcrest Campus. A bird census indicates the doubling of bird numbers recorded between 2016 and 2022.
CO 2 EMISSIONS
Tree planting programme aims to plant 250 to 300 trees a year. Tree Plotter software assists with calculating oxygen generated by trees and indicates the contribution towards reducing CO2 emissions.
LANDSCAPE TREE MANAGEMENT
RESEARCH AND POSTERITY
UP has the best arboretum collection in South Africa, with over 100 species actively managed and growing. Onderstepoort and Hillcrest campuses have arboretum collections with indigenous and exotic species. Various research groups study the trees.
MANAGEMENT
Tree surveys monitor the health and longevity of existing trees on campuses; pest control of the shot hole borer by monitoring and controlling efforts.
LANDSCAPE
WATER MANAGEMENT
SMART TECHNOLOGY
Smart solutions to the sustainable control of stormwater. Pursuing technology that can manage a specific system’s water volume. It is linked to the weather forecast and can decide whether to release water from its holding capacity before a downpour to ensure capacity.
IRRIGATION
UP depends on boreholes for the irrigation of its green open spaces. The strategy is to reduce dependence on this water source, especially during summer when stormwater and greywater harvesting can be used for irrigation.
ATTENUATION AND RAINWATER HARVESTING
Introduce a range of water features that will attenuate and harvest stormwater run-off to reduce pressure experienced on the municipal stormwater system and recharge groundwater, such as Watersensitive urban design (WSUD)
PLANTS
Indigenous plant palettes on all campuses will reduce water requirements. UP is pursuing xeriscaping with succulent plants, with locally developed flowering hybrid aloes.
RETENTION
Dredging of retention dams will increase the storage facility and improve the water quality and recreational value.
POROUS SURFACES
Stormwater run-off can be reduced by introducing alternative porous surfaces that allow surface water to enter the ground, reducing erosion along rivers and recharging groundwater.
LANDSCAPE
PRODUCTIVE – COMPOSTING
SOIL CONSERVATION
Improved soil structure promotes the soil’s ability to retain water and support microbial processes.
METHODOLOGY
The organic approach to fertilising and locally produced compost has returned the soil to a healthier and more balanced state, with the recovery of natural microbes. These methods are used for UP’s sports fields and sports turf areas network.
COST SAVING
The broader use of compost and mulch in gardens has reduced water requirements and consequently reduced costs.
LANDSCAPE
PRODUCTIVE – URBAN FARMING
ORPHAN AFRICAN CROPS
UP is pursuing the initiative to conserve, propagate and popularise minor crops and underutilised plant species among the campus food farming initiatives.
GIVING GARDENS
• Social responsibility
• Urban food gardens
• Heirloom plants
(Little-known exotic and African food plants being used in our aesthetic landscapes)
URBAN FOOD GARDENS
The benefits of urban farming initiatives are worth pursuing and implementing in and around campuses. They provide opportunities for research, social giving and education.
HERITAGE CONSERVATION & DEFERRED MAINTENANCE
A 10-year heritage conservation management plan has been developed. More than 40% of all UP buildings are older than 60 years. The National Heritage Resources Act protects them. The 10-year Conservation Management Plan will ensure that UP obtains permission from the regulatory body to carry out necessary maintenance to preserve the buildings. The plan categorises buildings in terms of significance, indicates which elements need critical attention and proposes repair methods or procedures. Buildings that require urgent attention have been identified and are indicated in the adjacent plans.
Further to the Heritage Conservation Management Plan, the deferred maintenance backlog has been a focus area, and although some progress has been made in reducing the backlog, it remains a concern. The deferred maintenance backlog stands at more than R800 million across all campuses. Deferred maintenance places UP at risk regarding compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and compliance with the latest building regulations. Where refurbishment projects are undertaken, the deferred maintenance in the facilities and compliance with the latest building regulations are addressed, but this applies only to buildings where major refurbishment projects are undertaken.
PRINSHOF
HATFIELD AND SOUTH CAMPUS
HILLCREST CAMPUS
CAMPUS
ONDERSTEPOORT CAMPUS
INFRASTRUCTURE & BULK SERVICES
The possibility of expanding facilities on each campus depends firstly on the availability of bulk services from the CoT, which informed UP in September 2018 that no additional water and electricity supplies were available. There may be instances where spare capacity is available on previously installed networks, but the capacity of installations cannot be expanded. Secondly, the bulk services infrastructure of the University, from the point of supply by the city to the various buildings on the campuses, is constrained and in need of significant upgrading.
The age and state of infrastructure installations on UP campuses require significant investment for rejuvenation. Any new development or refurbishment on any campus should make provision for upgrading these services. The tables (left) indicate development possibilities on the various campuses. A distinction is made from the point of supply (CoT) perspective and the bulk service infrastructure on campuses.
CONCLUSION
SDP 2030 represents a milestone in UP’s growth and development. The plan provides a comprehensive and integrated framework to guide the strategic use of the University’s physical space over the following five to 10 years.
Extensive research, consultation and collaboration with key stakeholders – such as faculties, staff, students and community members – and incorporating previous plans ensured that SDP 2030 is rooted in the unique needs and values of the University, and takes into account various external factors that have a direct bearing on the campuses. The master planning initiatives are designed to foster a cohesive, efficient and sustainable physical environment that meets the diverse needs of its users and supports the academic mission.
The development potential is outlined by various intervention strategies that envision a University environment that reflects the highest design and planning standards while promoting equity, environmental stewardship and social responsibility.
The plan proposes the development of various campus precinct plans to balance the needs of the various faculties and professional services.
We are confident that the SDP and implementation plans provide a clear roadmap for the University’s future growth and development. With this plan, UP can achieve a physical environment that aligns with its mission and vision while meeting the evolving needs of students, faculty, staff and the larger community.
We are excited to see SDP 2030 unfold, and look forward to seeing the physical transformation of UP in the coming years. We believe this plan will serve as a foundation upon which we can build, and ensure that UP remains a vibrant, sustainable and welcoming learning environment for all.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The Planning and Development division of the Department of Facilities Management would like to express a heartfelt thanks to our professional services staff and external consultants who contributed to SDP 2030 and the ongoing planning initiatives of UP. Their feedback, input and hard work have been instrumental in shaping the plan.
We are grateful to our team of researchers, planners, architects, consultants and experts who devoted their time and expertise to producing this plan. Their knowledge, insight and expertise have helped in every aspect of the plan, from research to planning and final delivery. Special thanks to Thomashoff and Partner Architects, and UP’s professional and technical services staff, Nicolaas Bester, Ane Wheeler, Unarine Nemutundi, Marie Badenhorst, Ilze Ueckermann, Aubrey Matthews and Hendrik Rasebopye.
A special mention goes to Ina Liebenberg who compiled this document – your professionalism, attention to detail and commitment to quality are evident in every aspect of the report.
We would also like to acknowledge the contribution of the Chief Operating Officer at UP, Sandile Mthiyane, and senior management members in the department for their invaluable input and review, which helped us to refine the report.
Additionally, we extend our gratitude to various external consultants whose contributions and feedback have informed the report: ARC Architects, HP Architects, LTS Health, Ludwig Hansen, MediPlan Architects & Health Planners, Neo Architects, VDO Architects and Wilkinson Architects. We’d also like to thank EYEscape for the professional photographs and the UP Language Unit and Maya Morgan-Skillen for the expert editing. Your contributions have elevated the overall quality of the report.
Finally, we thank Professor Susan Adendorff for her support, expertise and encouragement. It is greatly appreciated.
We sincerely appreciate everyone who contributed to this report. It has been a collaborative effort and a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work and cooperation.
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